IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT!! MY BLOG HAS MOVED.

Due to a comment I received today I realized that I have neglected to tell you that my blog has moved to the actual Alice website. Since this linked from that location I suppose it just slipped my mind that some may have this site bookmarked.

You can now find my blog at http://www.alice1059.com/ on my page (Sam Hill).

Since moving my blog, I not only have the new music releases every Tuesday, I am also spending more time blogging on other things! Though the layout isn't currently as pretty as this, I make up for it in content!!

Thanks for reading and I hope you continue to do so on the Alice website.
xo,
Sam

big stuff in boxed sets and dvds

Some fun new stuff for today:

Sarah McLachlan- Fumbling Towards Ecstacy Legacy Edition
This triple disc legacy edition set includes the original album as well as the Freedom Sessions, On the included DVD, you’ll get the US and Canadian version of the Possession music video, plus vids for Hold On and Good Enough and other assorted goodies. This release commemorates the 15 year anniversary of the release of FTE.

Randy Newman- Harps & Angels
His first release of original material in 10 years.

Additional Releases:
Trapt- Only Through the Pain
The Faint- Fascination
The Airborne Toxic Event- The Airborne Toxic Event
KMFDM- Vol. 2- Extra **Sam’s Pick**
Oceanlab- Sirens of the Sea
Hawthorne Heights- Fragile Future
Nappy Roots- The Humdinger
Zebrahead- Phoenix
City Boy- Dinner at the Ritz
The Real McKenzies- Off the Leash
Carla Bruni- Comme Si de Rien N’Etait
Mike Gordon- The Green Sparrow
Carrie Rodriguez- She Ain’t Me
Laurie Berkner Band- Rocketship Run
Brazillian Girls- New York City
Conor Oberst- Conor Oberst
Mandi Perkins- Alice In No Man’s Land
Keith Anderson- C’mon
Peter Bradley Adams- Leavetaking
Dave Stewart- The Dave Stewart Songbook, Vol. 1
Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band- The Whole Fam Damnily
Jamey Johnson- That Lonesome Song
Amy Ray- Didn’t It Feel Kinder
Lloyd- Lessons In Love
Therion- Live Gothic (double CD/DVD)
Jim Boggia- Misadventures in Stereo
Norma Jean- The Anti Mother

Comedy:
Lewis Black- Anticipation (Live)

Boxed Sets:
Elvis Presley- Complete ’68 Comeback Special: 40th Anniversary Edition
James Brown- I Got the Feeling: James Brown in the 60s (DVD)
Heide Newfield- What Am I Waiting For
Pink Floyd- Collectors Box

DVD:
Elvis Presley- Elvis #1 Hit Performance and more, Vol. 2
Heart- Soundstage Presents: Heart Live
REO Speedwagon- Soundstage Presents: REO Speedwagon Live in the Heartland
Korn- Live at Montreux (Blu-ray)
Queen- We Thank You All
Aerosmith- Videobiography
Phish- Walnut Creek
Gary Numan- Berserker

Soundtracks:
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2- Original Soundtrack

Some classics take the spotlight today...

Here are some of the new releases for today, July 29th, 2008

U2-Deluxe Edition Boxed Set (only on Amazon.com)
Last week there were a few remastered reissues of U2 albums…this week those are combined in an Amazon.com exclusive box-set release. Double CD deluxe editions of Boy, October and War are included with loads of b-sides, rare tracks and live recordings. For some reason, the box has one extra space for a 4th disc, but that’s left up to the U2 fan to fill, because it’s not included with the special set. New liner notes are included for each remastered disc and there’s a full-color replica poster from the boys early years.

Rick Springfield- Venus in Overdrive
Fans of Springfield should be downright delighted that he’s coming out with an album of new material. It’s all about love this time around (thus the title of the recording). He has two songs written for a young fan who passed away. If you are a viewer of General Hospital, you probably all ready know Springfield returns today as his old character Noah Drake and his rocker alter-ego to promote his new release.

Alice Cooper- Along Came a Spider
Here comes Alice, with a new conceptual album and his camp is claiming it’s the ‘hardest’ Alice album yet and a return to his early vocal stylings. Classic Alice, they are saying. Of course, there will be a vinyl release, too.

Greta Gaines- Whiskey Thoughts **Sam’s Pick**
This woman is so fascinating. You may recognize her from her television appearances (MTV, ESPN2 etc) or her conquests as a professional snowboarder, but getting to know the songstress is just as exciting. Her raw lyrics and sultry vocals are delightful. She’s rootsy and dirty… yum.

Additional Releases:
Soulfly- Conquer (CD/DVD)
Scars on Broadway- Scars on Broadway **Sam’s Pick**
Tom Jones- Live at Cardiff Castle
Zach Gill- Stuff **Sam’s Pick**
Rusty Truck- Luck’s Changing Lanes
The Terrible Twos- Jerzy the Giant
Matthew Pryor- Confidence Man
Erin Bode- The Little Garden **Sam’s Pick**
Wild Sweet Orange- We Have Cause to Be Uneasy
Third Day- Revelation
Sieges Even- Playgrounds
Alyssa Graham- Echo
Krallice- Krallice
James Jackson Toth- Waiting in Vain
Peter Salett- In the Ocean of the Stars
Johnny Winter- Live Bootleg Series Volume Three
Neil Halstead- Oh! Mighty Engine
Walls of Jericho- The American Dream
Kidz Bop Kids- Kidz Bop 14
Various Artists- Hed Kandi: Summer Mix 2008
After the Burial- Rareform
Exmortus- In Hatred’s Flame
Brad Caleb Kane- This Day in History
Anson Funderburgh- Talk to You By Hand

Soundtracks:
Mongol- Original Score
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor- Original Score
Pete Kelly’s Blues- Original Soundtrack

Reissues:
Hall & Oates- Along the Red Ledge (Original Recording Remastered)
Stan Getz- Sweet Rain (Original Recording Remastered)
Hugh Masekela- Home is Where the Music Is (Original Recording Remastered)
Vern Gosdin- Till the End

a little bit country and a little bit rock and roll...

Here are some of today's releases:

Sugarland- Love On The Inside
Country lovers, here’s the latest from Sugarland. The deluxe edition has additional tracks, including a couple live covers you may recognize. One of Matt Nathanson’s “Come On Get Higher” and “Life in a Northern Town” originally by The Dream Academy. When Matt was here a few months back he mentioned that Sugarland's management had asked to put the song on their album and he was like... what? He had no idea they had been covering it live. Hehe.

NIN-The Slip (Limited Ed.)
This is a limited edition of NINs eighth major studio release. This album is also known as Halo 27. This edition includes a bonus DVD.

Miley Cyrus- Breakout
Here is Miley’s second self-titled release. At 15, the Hannah Montana star has all ready sold over 10 million albums. Pure pop with bouncy lyrics and Miley's infectious energy that has captured the hearts of kids everywhere... oh, and a few adults, too. :)

Candlebox- Into the Sun
Yeah, they are still around, though it’s been a decade since we’ve heard new music from them. Candlebox has recreated their sound nicely on this release, but I was a little disappointed in the lack of something fresh. It almost sounds to me like these songs were leftovers from the first release in 1995 (Candlebox), which I loved. But again… more growth would’ve been nice since it is not 1995. I guess the good news is: if you loved Candlebox back in the 90s and want a continuation of the exact same sound, you got it.

Pepper- Pink Crustaceans and Good Vibrations **Sam's Pick**
They are known as a reggae/ska/dub/rock band. For me, their brand of music has always pleased and their lyrics are clever and fun. I am not a huge reggae fan, in fact I’m very particular about the reggae I listen to, but Pepper has become one I wouldn’t do without.

Plus, I have this hilarious memory of them from several years back in my hometown of Spokane, WA. They showed up at this club where I was hanging with some friends and immediately began buying shots for everyone associated with the radio station. They wouldn’t stop! Every two seconds, they were shoving Jaeger in my face and teasing me if I didn’t drink it! I ended up hiding behind the bar with one of my friends because we didn’t want any more! Haha.

David Bowie- Live in Santa Monica ‘72 **Sam's Pick**
This live release is absolutely Bowie at his best. The show was broadcasted live at LAs KMET. On this show, Bowie was accompanied by The Spiders From Mars. Songs from Hunky Dory and Ziggy Stardust were the primary features of this show.

Additional Releases:
Black Sabbath- Rules of Hell (Boxed Set)
The Classic Crime- The Silver Cord
Slightly Stoopid- Slightly Not Stoned Enough to Eat Breakfast
Paul Weller- 22 Dreams
Danny Tenaglia- Futurism
Archie Fisher- Windward Away
Paul “Shilts’ Weimar- Jigsaw Life
Francesca Battistelli- My Paper Heart
Black Kids- Partie Traumatic
Hammerfall- Masterpieces
Lustmore- Other
Noel Gourdin- After My Time
Janis Ian- Best of Janis Ian- The Autobiography Collection
Dr. Dog- Fate
CSS- Donkey
Wiggles- You Make Me Feel Like Dancing
Tea Leaf Green- Raise Up The Tent
Nico Muhly- Mothertongue
Austrian Death Machine- Total Brutal

Soundtracks:
The Forbidden Kingdom (Original Score)
Batman: Gotham Knight (Christopher Drake, Robert J. Kral and Kevin Manthei)
Lost Boys: The Tribe
X-Files: I Want To Believe (Original Score)

DVDs:
Daft Punk- Electroma **Sam's Pick**
Darren Hayes- The Time Machine Tour

Reissues: **all Sam's picks**
Note: All U2 reissues also released in vinyl editions.
U2-Boy (Original Recording Remastered)
U2- October (Original Recording Remastered)
U2- War (Original Recording Remastered)
Dead Can Dance- Into the Labyrinth (Remastered)
Dead Can Dance- Within the Realm of a Dying Sun (Remastered)
Dead Can Dance- Serpent’s Egg (Remastered)
Dead Can Dance- Aion (Remastered)
Dead Can Dance- Spleen and Ideal (Remastered)
Dead Can Dance- Spiritchaser (Remastered)
Dead Can Dance- Toward the Within (Remastered)
Dead Can Dance- Garden of the Arcane Delights (EP-Remastered)

a lil' something for everyone...

Here are some of today's new releases:

O.A.R.- All Sides
Of a Revolution’s latest is diverse and a very pleasant listen. They have grown leaps and bounds from their last album (not that I didn’t LOVE that one, too), but it’s always nice to see a band grow in a great, natural way.

Ace Young- Ace Young
He’s a season 5 finalist for American Idol, local boy and a friend of Alice and he’s finally releasing his debut self-titled album. I’ve only heard to tracks from this new album so far, Addicted and You Redeem Me, both of which were pretty good.

Delta Goodrem- Delta
There’s a big chance you’ve never heard of Delta, but she holds some impressive records in her home country of Australia. She is their all time top selling female vocalist with 8 number one singles there. This is Delta’s third CD and her US debut. I’ve had the chance to meet Delta a couple of times and her story is inspiring and she is one of the most beautiful and sweet women I have ever met. We will have new material (live) from her on the website very soon!

John Mellencamp- Life Death Love and Freedom
Mellencamp calls his latest work a collection of “modern electric folk songs.” Producer T Bone Burnett along with help from his team developed a new audio format (CODE) and Mellencamp’s latest album is the first to be released in this format. What does this mean? Basically, it’s high resolution audio that will playable through any DVD player. And don’t worry, for those that like the plain ol’ CD, it will be included at no extra cost. (For you vinyl fans, the album will be released that way as well)

Additional releases:
Sarah Brightman- In Concert
Nas- Nas
David Banner- Greatest Story Ever Told
Otis Redding- Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul
Jet Black Stare- In This Life
Jeff Larson- Left of a Dream
The Hold Steady- Stay Positive
Blackmore’s Night- Secret Voyage
Randy Travis- Around The Bend
Foreigner- No End in Sight: The Very Best of Foreigner
Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons- The Motown Years
Elisa- Dancing
Bajofondo- Mar Dulce
Wire- Object 47
Honeybus- Story
The Grascals- Keep on Walkin’
ABN- It Is What It Is
Green City- Brand New Money
Recess Monkey- Tabby Road
Various Artists- Always Something There: A Burt Bacharach Collector’s Anthology 1952-1969.

Soundtracks:
Soundtrack- The Dark Knight Limited Edition (Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard)
Soundtrack- Hellboy II: The Golden Army (Danny Elfman)
Soundtrack- Wall-E
Original Broadway Cast- Passing Strange

DVDs:
Tesla- Comin Atcha Live! 2008
Iggy & the Stooges- Escaped Maniacs

Reissues:
James Taylor- In The Pocket
Metallica- Master of Puppets (In LP Format)
Hall & Oates- Beauty on a Back Street (remastered)
Dokken- Back for the Attack
White Lion- Pride
Carly Simon- Torch

more new music than you can shake a stick at...

Here we go:

Maroon 5- It Won’t Be Soon Before Long (CD/DVD Deluxe Edition)
Let’s see what we get on this Deluxe Edition release: 7 extra songs including the new version of If I Never See Your Face Again (feat. Rihanna), plus a DVD loaded with live performances from both of M5s smash-hit packed albums.

Beck- Modern Guilt
Beck teamed up with acclaimed producer Danger Mouse for his latest work and we find the two of them compliment each other well. 10 new tracks that take Beck even further into his own little world… fortunately, he lets us come along.

3OH!3- Want
Sean and Nathaniel are two guys from Boulder who have created quite a stir with their extremely unique brand of electronica and thrash. If you’ve ever been to a show, you know that special hand signal that everyone makes… rock sticks goodbye! Learn to hold up the 3OH!3 or you are waaaay behind.

Willie Nelson/Wynton Marsalis- Two Men With The Blues **Sam’s Pick**
When Nelson played two nights at Jazz at Lincoln Center in January of 2007, the nights were billed as “Willie Nelson Sings the Blues.” But the collaboration of the two became something much more and we have this live recording to speak for it! An awesome blend of country and jazz. A must-have.

Me First and the Gimme Gimmes- Have Another Ball! **Sam’s Pick**
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of their first album, Have Another Ball is a disc of recordings from their original Have A Ball session, which was actually supposed to be a double album. So, consider this the second disc, only a decade later. Covered gems include The Boxer, You’ve Got a Friend, Only The Good Die Young, Mahogany and Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me. AWESOME.

The Rest (in very particular order):
Melvins- Nude with Boots **Sam’s Pick**
Bob Dylan- Best of Bob Dylans’ Teme Time Radio Hour Vol. 2
Bad Religion- New Maps of Hell (Deluxe Edition)
Opiate for the Masses- Manifesto
Billy Joel- The Stranger: 30th Anniversary Limited Edition/Deluxe Boxed Set (3CDs and DVD)
Great Big Sea- Fortune’s Favour **Sam's Pick**
Kerli- Love Is Dead **Sam's Pick**
Gaelic Storn- What’s the Rumpus?
Saul Williams- The Inevitable Rise and Liberation of Niggy Tardust
Mighty Mighty Bosstones- Medium Rare (Limited Edition)
Yaz- In Your Room (Box Set)
UFO- Lights Out (Extra Tracks) reissue
UFO- Obsession (Extra Tracks) reissue
UFO- Strangers in the Night (Extra Tracks) reissue
Various- Country Sings Disney
Patti Smith and Kevin Shields- The Coral Sea
Robin Trower- Day of the Eagle: The Best of Robin Trower
Ratatat- Lp3
Capital Lights- This Is an Outrage!
Scar Symmetry- Holographic Universe
The Baseball Project- Volume 1: Frozen Ropes and Dying Quails
Ron Sexsmith- Exit Strategy of the Soul
Los Temerarios- Si Tu Te Vas
Del McCoury- Moneyland
Donna the Buffalo- Silverlined
Chromeo- Fancy Footwork: Deluxe Edition
The Radiators- Wild & Free

Soundtracks:
Mamma Mia!
Weeds: Music From the Series Vol. 3

DVDs:
Sheryl Crow- Soundstage Presents: Sheryl Crow Live
Cannibal Corpse- Centuries of Torment (Greatest Hits)
Coldplay- The Coldplay Phenomenon (2006)
Linkin Park- Linkin Park:From a Whisper to a Scream

tragic news about local band tickle me pink

Moments after doing my new music releases for today I received shocking news about our local band Tickle Me Pink. Please keep his family, bandmates and friends in our thoughts through this difficult time:

TICKLE ME PINK BASSIST JOHNNY SCHOU FOUND DEAD

Fort Collins, CO --- Tickle Me Pink bassist Johnny Schou was found dead this morning at home in Colorado. The quartet from Fort Collins was to celebrate the release of their debut album with an in-store appearance in Denver today. Further information regarding the band’s plans, and dates that have been previously announced, will be forthcoming in due time. Johnny Schou was 22 years-old.

whoo-hoo.. newww!

New music for today!

John Mayer- Where the Light Is
There are three sets included on this new live release! An acoustic show with just Mayer, one with his whole band and a set with the John Mayer Trio! All three were recorded in December of 2007 in L.A. at the Nokia Theater. This release is available as a double disc, a DVD or on Blu-Ray

Los Lonely Boys- Forgiven
The band’s third release. Produced by Steve Jordan, known in part for his work with John Mayer.

My Chemical Romance- The Black Parade is Dead
My Chem is known for their dramatic approach to music and their last album, The Black Parade showed just what they were capable of conceptually. This release comes with a CD and DVD featuring a live performance from fall of ‘07 (if you saw them on that particular tour, they played the whole album track by track… in order). There is a mega special edition available for the super fan on the band’s site, www.mychemicalromance.com

Tickle Me Pink- Madeline
This is TMP’s first release on their new label deal with Wind-Up. The release features an included DVD with a live performance from their hometown, which happens to be Fort Collins. “Typical” is the song you may recognize and it indicates the rest of the album is completely worth checkin’ out! So, do it!

Alkaline Trio- Agony & Irony **Sam’s Pick**’
I’m only going to mention the features of the deluxe edition because there’s no point in getting the regular version when you can have oh-so-much more! This edition includes a bonus CD with acoustic recordings. The sound of AT has evolved ever-so-nicely over the decade the band has been together. Singer/Guitarist Matt Skiba has a gorgeous voice and we are finally getting to hear it as the band continues on in their melodic direction. One thing hasn’t changed: though evolved, the lyrics are still dark and disturbing for the most part… just the way we like ‘em.

Relient K- The Bird and the Bee Sides
There are 24 tracks on this album! Ok…not all of them are new… 13 are, though, so there’s your full new album. The remainder is (The Bee part) 13 remixed/remastered songs and a smattering of other excellent stuff that hasn’t been available before today.

DVDs
Lamb of God- Walk With Me in Hell (DVD) **Sam’s Pick**
Luther Vandross- All The Hits (DVD)
Lou Reed- Live! (DVD)
Donna Summer- Disco Queen (DVD)
Neil Diamond- Thank You Australia Concert: Live 1976 (DVD)

Other releases worth noting:
Night Ranger- Hole In The Sun
Pogues- Just Look Them Straight in the Eye and Say… Pogue Mahone
Tech N9ne- Killer
Vanessa Hudgens- Identified
Soundtrack- Hancock (by John Powell)
Soundtrack- Meet Dave (Original Score)
Thrillseekers- Nightmusic, Vol. 3
Gregorian Chant and Recorded Sound- Chant: Music For The Soul
G-Unit- T.O.S.: Terminate on Sight
J*Davey- The Beauty in Distortion/The Land of the Lost
James Harman- Two Sides to Every Story
Freeks- Freeks
Technical Itch- You Need Therapy

Cool Reissues:
Willie Nelson- Stardust: 30 Anniversary Legacy Edition (Bonus Tracks) **Sam’s Pick**
John Coltrane- Dakar (Original Recording Remastered) **Sam’s Pick**
The Orb- Orbus Terrarum (Original Recording Remastered)
The Orb- Orblivion (Original Recording Remastered)
The Orb- Cydonia (Original Recording Remastered)
Van Morrison- Veedon Fleece (Digitally Remastered/Extra Tracks)
Van Morrison- No Guru, No Method, No Teacher (Digitally Remastered/Extra Tracks)
Van Morrison- A Night in San Francisco (Digitally Remastered/Extra Tracks)
Van Morrison- Enlightenment (Digitally Remastered/Extra Tracks)
Van Morrison- Live at the Grand Opera House Belfast (Digitally Remastered/Extra Tracks)
Van Morrison- The Healing Game (Digitally Remastered/Extra Tracks)
Kansas- Two For The Show (30th Anniversary Edition/Extra Tracks!)

Thanks for reading. :)

xo,
Sam

new crue?? say it isn't so!

Motley Crue- Saints of Los Angeles
Years of up and down… good times and bad times. Perfect fodder for any behind the music show. But now… the original lineup is back… with a new album and a big ol’ tour modeled after Ozzfest. You wanna catch the guys live? They will be on Letterman tonight. Plus, their tour Crue Fest will be hitting Fiddlers’ on July 27th.

Billy Idol- The Very Best of Billy Idol: Idolize Yourself **Sam’s Pick**
This release comes just as a CD with 16 classic Idol tracks and two new songs, but if you go for the deluxe edition (also out today) you will get a DVD as well that has 13 videos that have until now been unavailable commercially. Yes, I’m telling you to spring for the deluxe!

Pat Benatar- Ultimate Collection (Double Disc)
You’re not going to find any special unreleased material on this double disc set, but you will get a heckuva great collection of Benatar’s greatest hits. Some digital remasters, but nothing new. 40 tracks in all.

Edwin McCain- Nobody’s Fault But Mine
A lot of songwriters decide at some point to do an album filled with covers of some of their personal favorites. Some of these ventures fall flat, true.. but this isn’t one of those. McCain covered vintage southern soul tunes and classic R&B songs from greats like Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, etc. Plus, they did this disc the right way, leaving the recordings for the most part alone. What we get is something with a minimal amount of tweakage.

Steve Tyrell- Back to Bacharach
Speaking of cover albums, here is another from Steve Tyrell. This album focuses completely on the legendary composer Burt Bacharach. A very thorough collection and very true to the subject chosen.

D’Angelo- The Best So Far (CD/DVD)
The first collection of hits from D'Angelo, the innovator of the Neo-Soul movement. DVD contains music videos commercially available for the first time. Cross label compilation including tracks from rare albums and soundtracks. Features songs with Eryka Badu and Raphael Sadiq. Platinum selling artist having sold over 6 million albums worldwide.

Amos Lee- Last Days At the Lodge
This is Lee’s third album and the singer-songwriter only seems to get better with each release. I’ve only listened all the way through once, but my initial reaction is that this is one super sexy and super chill album..

G. Love & Special Sauce- Superhero Brother
The inspiration for one tune on this album stemmed from a trip G. Love made to Rio de Janeiro, but that’s far from the only political track on the release. However, there is a nice balance. G. Love’s role as a daddy has obviously influenced his music. So, what we get is a perfect blend of all good things G. Love.

Less Than Jake- Gnv Fla **Sam’s Pick**
Wheee! New LTG! If you love good ska punk I’ll meet you at Cheapo this evening and we can clean ‘em out of copies. Haha!


And here are some more!
Cute Is What We Aim For- Rotation (Playing the Marquis on August 5th)
Sigur Ros- Med Sud I Eyrum Vid Spilum Endalaust **Sam’s Pick**
Shinedown- The Sound of Madness.(fan club edition out, too)
Various (Sinead O’Connor, Peter Gabriel etc.)- Big Blue Ball
Soundtrack- Wanted (by Danny Elfman)
Soundtrack- Wall*e
Soundtrack- Into Great Silence: Office of the Night
Kutless- To Know That You’re Alice
Niyaz- Nine Heavens
Marc Ribot’s Ceramic Dog- Party Intellectuals
Ry Cooder- I, Flathead Limited Deluxe Edition
Greg Howe- Sound Proof
Walter Trout- The Outsider
Reckless Kelly- Bulletproof
Superschic(k)- Rock What You Got
RZA- Digi Snax
Immortal Technique & DJ Green Lantern- The 3rd World
Hercules and Love Affair- Hercules & Love Affair
Eric Darius- Goin’ All Out
The Watson Twins- Fire Songs
Mark Chesnutt- Rollin’ with the Flow
Incognito- Tales from the Beach
Chase- Chase/Ennea/Pure Music
The Jeff Lorber Fusion- Soft Space
Crooked Still- Still Crooked
Thalia- Lunada
Blondie- Parallel Lines (Deluxe/Collector’s Edition)


DVD
ZZ Top- Live From Texas
Hi-5 Summer Rainbows- Hi-5: Summer Rainbows
New Order- Live in Glasgow
Spock’s Beard- Live

Thanks for reading!

xoxo,
Sam

deeeep breath... and go!

Here are some of the new releases for today!

Rihanna- Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded (CD/DVD)
This is a limited edition release that includes three new tracks including the duet with Maroon 5.. the new version of “If I Never See Your Face Again.” The new DVD provides fans with behind the scenes footage of the star.

Coldplay- Viva La Vida
This is the group’s 4th album and they have been teasing us for months, telling us it’s a bit of a departure from their ‘norm.’ but the first two singles didn’t sound too different to me, but the other tracks show the new experimentation a little more clearly. One thing is clear, this is a sonically beautiful album.

The Offspring- Rise and Fall, Rage and Grace
(remastered versions of Ignition/Smash also out today)
Album number 8 has arrived! I’ll admit, my love for The Offspring waned after Ixnay on the Hombre, but this album has brought me back! The guys pulled a good move having producer Bob Rock along this time.

Katy Perry- One of the Boys
You’ve heard one of her songs on Alice. The naughty in a good way “I Kissed a Girl.” Slacker and Steve have been putting it on when they feel like aggravating the boss. There’s more than that song, though! The album is super fun and impeccably produced.

Sister Hazel- Before the Amplifiers- Live Acoustic
New and old songs alike can be found on this 16-track stripped down album. Love it!

The Byrds- Live at Royal Albert Hall 1971
This is pretty cool! This live recording was found in singer/guitarist Roger McGuinn’s garage.. dusty and forgotten.. but it’s out now for the world to hear. Early reviews hail this as the best Byrds live recording ever.

Rehab- Sittin’ at a Bar
Oh yeah… The title track is about drinking and fightin’ with the girlfriend in the trailer park and ending up at the bar, waiting for the cops. Maybe good for a curiosity listen? At least the title track is and the band was generous enough to include a karaoke version of the song for those that want to belt it out themselves.


Additional Releases:
The Notwist- The Devil, You + Me **Sam’s Pick**
Soundtrack- Camp Rock
Soundtrack- Get Smart
Soundtrack- Kit Kittredge: An American Girl
Judas Priest- Nostradamus
Chicago- Stone of Sisyphus (XXXII)
Kathy Griffin- For Your Consideration
DJ Tiesto- Elements of Life World Tour
Chante Moore and Mariah Carey- Love the Woman
Mick Hucknall- Tribute to Bobby
Tilly and the Wall- o
Deep Purple- Around the World Live (DVD Box Set)
Eric Clapton- Eric Clapton- Masterpieces (Collectors Special Edition) DVD
The Pogues- Just Look Them Straight in the Eye and Say… Pogue Mahone (Box Set)
Wolf Parade- At Mount Zoomer
Julieta Venegas- MTV Unplugged
Teddy Thompson- A Piece of What You Need
Dan Tyminski- Wheels
2 Pistols- Death Before Dishonor
Silver Jews- Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea
Amethystium- Isabliss
Rebecca Lynn Howard- No Rules
Cielo- CincoAdem- Takes

we'll start with alanis and go from there!

Alanis Morissette- Flavors of Entanglement
Alanis’ new album has just a bit more of a dramatic feel, but not enough to frighten her fans. Her producer has added an edge to this release and Morissette’s failed relationships obviously help her write passionate music. The tunes are very diverse in style and make for a very well-rounded album and a very interesting listen. It’s true, we like her better when she’s ticked off!

My Morning Jacket- Evil Urges
The critics seem afraid that this new work from MMJ is going to sink the band. It is decidedly different yes, but the jury is still out for me on whether they have taken their experimenting too far. MMJ has hit the road in support of their new album. They will be playing Red Rocks with the Black Keyes on August 21st. Tickets are on sale now.

Jakob Dylan- Seeing Things
Jakob is best known as the lead singer of the Wallflowers and for being Bob Dylan’s son This is his first solo album produced by legendary producer Rick Rubin. His songwriting stands out as great as ever on this one and Jakob’s folk roots are most definitely making a stand here. He’s currently touring to support his new album… no date scheduled here yet, but if you want to see him perform live right away, he’s on Letterman tomorrow night.

Adele- 19
Adele has been gearing up to attack the music scene for a while, but you may only be hearing of her for the first time today, the US release of her new album featuring the song “Chasing Pavements.” Adele’s music can best be described as soulful and jazzy.

The Fratellis- Here We Stand **Sam’s Pick**
This is the band’s much anticipated sophomore album. I’m picking it even though I haven’t even heard it in its entirety yet. That’s how much I love this band. If they add us to their world tour plans, their show is a must see.


Other releases worth noting:
Emmylou Harris- All I Intended to Be **Sam’s Pick**
N.E.R.D.-Seeing Sounds **Sam’s Pick**
Sloan- Parallel Play
Rev Theory- Light It Up
Solomon Burke- Like a Fire
Joan as Policewoman- To Survive
The Infamous Stringdusters- The Infamous Stringdusters
The Orb- The Dream **Sam’s Pick**
Robert Pollard- Robert Pollard is Off to Business
Craig Armstrong- The Incredible Hulk Score (Double Disc)
Lil Wayne- Tha Carter III
Priscilla Ahn- A Good Day
Martha Wainwright- I Know You’re Married But I’ve Got Feelings Too
Walter Becker- Circus Money
Cassandra Wilson- Loverly
Plies- Definition of Real
Dj Tiesto- In Search of Sunrise, Vol. 7
Mongomery Gentry- Back When I Knew It All
Gene Clard- Silverado ’75- Live and Unreleased
James Hunter- The Hard Way
Dan Zanes- Nueva York!
Victor Manuelle- Soy
Intocable- 2C
No Man- Schoolyard Ghosts
Janiva Magness- What Love Will Do
Bloodbath- Wacken Carnage

and now.. in no particular order...

Here are the new releases for today!

Disturbed- Indestructible **Sam’s Pick**
Disturbed is back with a slammin’ 4th album. The cover was designed by well-known comic book artist David Finch and there are three separate versions of it. Disturbed has enjoyed immense success so far (their first three albums have gone double/triple platinum) and I am certain this one will rise to the ranks of its predecessors.

Jewel- Perfectly Clear
For her 7th album, Jewel took her sound in a decidedly country direction. Not that she’s any stranger to it. Jewel has been writing country songs for many years and this was the time she felt she should finally put them on an album.

Weezer- Red Album **Sam’s Pick**
Weezer’s sixth album is actually their third self-titled album, but as with the Green Album (the fan’s name for their second self-title album) this will be known as the Red Album. Rivers Cuomo and company have again delivered an amazing work of quirky, fun and ingenious tunes starting with single number one “Pork and Beans,” a song devoted to the internet stars of today. See the video! Throw in the few extra bucks for the deluxe edition. Well worth it considering you get 4 bonus tracks, a special digipak and a loaded booklet with lyrics, photos and band commentary.

Gavin Rossdale- Wanderlust
Since his multi-platinum band Bush disbanded, Rossdale hasn’t totally rested on his laurels. In 2005, his band Institute released the album Distort Yourself and he’s been fathering children with his wife, the uber-successful Gwen Stefani. For his solo album, Rossdale has teamed with Josh Freese and Chris Traynor (from Bush). Don’t expect the rockin’ Rossdale here. This album is extremely melodic and loaded with slower, moody songs. Thanks to Bob Rock’s producing, it is slick if not a tad overdone.

Aimee Mann- @#%&*! Smilers **Sam’s Pick**
In my opinion, Aimee has one of the the most beautiful female voices on this planet! This her 7th solo release (those not familiar with Aimee as a solo artist will surely remember her as the moody lead of 80s band “Til Tuesday). There are 13 brand new original tunes for your auditory pleasure.

Radiohead- The Best of (Special Edition 2CD)
2 discs don’t go far in covering one of the greatest bands ever… well, according to me, but they chose some great tracks. The first disc is 17 tracks, covering the expected with songs like Creep, Paranoid Android and High and Dry. The second disc is a bit more deep, gathering some more excellent, if not as radio popular, tunes plus a couple tracks that didn’t make the bands albums. The limited edition gives a bit extra in the form of a longer booklet and fancier packaging.

Bret Michaels- Rock My World
Oh yes… the lead of Poison gives the rocker chicks another 12 tracks. Songs like It’s My Party and Menace to Society with surely make the women swoon. Ok, you caught me… I haven’t heard the entire album yet, but out of sheer curiosity, I SO WILL. Hehe…

Ladytron- Velocifero **Sam’s Pick**
Oh no, Ladytron is so much more than a great source for a remix! The members have an amazingly unique sound in their creation of the electronic music. Very experimental and the four all have an individual style that makes their albums highly varied and creative, so very so it can be a bit overwhelming. Velocifero is their 4th studio album.

Various Artists- Now, That’s What I Call Music Vol. 28
Featuring artists like Leona Lewis, Natasha Bedingfield, Colbie, Caillat and OneRepublic. Basically… you’re getting 20 tracks that are all smashi radio hits. Alice artists galore! Good party album.

Amy Winehouse- Frank (Deluxe)
This release incorporates Amy’s very first album Frank along with a bonus disc that features 17 never-before-heard tunes like demos, b-sides and some exclusive remixes.


Other releases worth noting:
George Stanford- Big Drop
Kaskade- Strobelight Seduction **Sam’s Pick**
James Newton Howard- The Happening (Soundtrack)
Various- Now That’s What I Call Classic Rock
Bitter:Sweet- Drama
The Futureheads- This Is Not the World
Chris Brown- Exclusive- The Forever Edition
Man Raze- Surreal
Ashanti- The Declaration
John5- Requiem
Wayman Tisdale- Rebound
Original Broadway Cast- In The Heights
Opeth- Watershed
Ting Tings- We Started Nothing
Fleet Foxes- Fleet Foxes
Brendan James- The Day Is Brave

sex in the city soundtrack and some soul from al green...

New music for today!

Various- Sex and the City Soundtrack
The long-awaited movie brings with it a killer chick soundtrack with artists like Jennifer Hudson, Jem, India Arie and Fergie. New songs and some classics are included on this release.

Cyndi Lauper- Bring Ya To The Brink
It’s been over a decade since Cyndi has released a full album of new material. Very dancy, very thumpy and oh, did I mention… a bit on the naughty side. Yes, there’s an explicit version. Naughty Cyndi! It’s new, fresh and fun.

Al Green- Lay It Down **Sam’s Pick**
This is Al Green’s tribute to, well.. himself. Guest artist include John Legend and Corinne Bailey Rae plus the drummer from the Roots. This album is incredibly soulful, produced impeccably and shows Green hasn’t lost one bit of his appeal. Think fireplace, candles.. and well, you know. Green is still all about love.

Usher- Here I Stand
It can’t be easy to follow up an album that sold over nine million copies, but here goes Usher again. Teaming up with some excellent producers has given Usher another solid album with his first single “Love in the Club” all ready at number 2 on the charts.

Steve Miller Band- Live from Chicago 2007 (DVD Box Set)
This stems from a two shows legendary Steve Miller played in Chicago last year at the Ravinia. The included documentary includes shots of Miller traveling around Chicago in a cab, showing fans some of the places he played early in his career.

The Smithereens- Live in Concert/Greatest Hits and More **Sam’s Pick**
Before they were signed, The Smithereens used to play a venue all the time called the Court Tavern in New Jersey. This compilation has live performances at that venue that spans their whole career (nearly 30 years). What you get is extended/crazy live versions of tunes, not limited to hit singles. An awesome compilation.

Other releases worth noting:
Lil Kim- Ms. G.O.A.T.- Greatest of All Time
Wisin & Yandel- Los Extraterrestres: Otra Dimension
KRS-One- Maximum Strength
Calvin Richardson- When Love Comes
John Hiatt- Same Old Man
Brooke Fraser- Albertine
Rehab- Sittin’ At A Bar
Sharon Little- Perfect Time a Breakdown
Spiritualized- Songs In A&E
Beto Terrazas- Conquistando Caminos
Jenny Scheinman- Jenny Scheinman
Midnight Juggernauts- Dystopia
36 Crazyfists- The Tide and it’s Takers
Mike Ragogna- Summerland
Angel Band- With Roots & WingsKeak Da Sneak- Deified

Coming soon! I will no longer be listing the blogs in this form. In the coming weeks, I will be replacing this with a video blog!

Meanwhile, thanks for reading. :)

xo,
Sam

local band makes it BIG and indiana gets a new soundtrack

Huge list of new stuff for today including a major label release for Denver band the Flobots!!

John Williams- Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (Soundtrack)
Who else would be composing the score for the new Indiana Jones movie? None other than legendary composer John Williams, of course! His epic, dramatic… extremely recognizable style has been immortalized in movies like Star Wars, Jurassic Park and yes, the other Indy movies.

3 Doors Down- 3 Doors Down
The band’s latest piece was recorded in two different locations (a farmhouse in Franklin, Tennessee and a mansion in Florida). Afterwards, they hauled their new babies to Nashville to be mixed. What resulted was what the guys describe a very personal record in the sense that every one of them was in a different, better place prior to any other album they’ve made. They are excited to be on the road in support of their new release.

Flobots- Fight With Tools **Sam's Pick**
Local fav the Flobots all ready released this album, so if your a fan you may all ready have it, but this is the major label re-release… same thing only the label name of Universal Republic has been added.

Scarlett Johansson- Anywhere I Lay My Head
The actress’s debut album is a tribute to Tom Waits. 10 of the tracks are his tunes done in her style and the 11th is an original called “Song for Jo.” Reviews so far on her attempt to break into the music world are not favorable, but curiosity may just make you wanna determine for yourself. I was not impressed with it, but then again, I’m sort of a Tom Waits purist.

Jesse McCartney- Departure
We find a more mature Jesse in this new release… he’s been busy honing his writing skills (ie: helping OneRepublic’s Ryan Tedder write Leona Lewis’ smash hit Bleeding Love) and feels this album is a departure from his younger ways, thus the title of the CD.

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers- Greatest Hits
Yes, this a new Greatest Hits, but the only difference is the addition of “Stop Dragging My Heart Around” his duet with Stevie Nicks and the absence of “Something in the Air.” So unless you reaaaaally want that duet on your greatest hits, you’re not getting’ much here.

Eric Hutchinson- Sounds Like This **Sam’s Pick**
This album was all ready released by Eric himself and sold over 10,000 copies, but he’s now been picked up by WEA/Reprise Records, it’s been re-released. He’s toured with the likes of Jason Mraz. Lovers of the singer/songwriter genre will dig!

John McLaughlin- Floating Point
Not to be confused with Jon McLaughlin.. John is a legendary guitar player (Jon is a young singer/songwriter/pianist that we had perform at the first AuNaturAlice last May). Along with the CD, there is also a DVD: John McLaughlin- John McLaughlin: Meeting of the Minds- The Making of Floating Point


Additional releases worth noting:
The Dresden Dolls- No, Virginia
King’s X- XV
2Pac- Assassination: Conspiracy or Revenge (DVD)
U2- Rattle and Hum (Blu-Ray)
Mudhoney- Lucky Ones (Mlps)
Love Psychedelico- This Is Love Psychedelico
Southern Gentlemen- Valley of Fire
The Band of Heathens- The Band of Heathens **Sam’s Pick**
Kidz Bop- 80s Gold
Donna Summer- Crayons
Another Black Day- Another Black Day
Julianne Hough- Julianne Hough
Foxboro Hot Tubs- Stop Drop and Roll
Sonny Landreth- From The Reach
Bun B- II Run
Jethro Tull- Jack in the Green: Live In Germany (DVD)
Miley Cyrus- Karaoke CD
Yellowjackets- Lifecycle
Mates of State- Re-Arrange Us
Various- Disneymania, Vol. 6
Various- Disney Music Block Party
Mason Jennings- In the Ever
James Carter- Present Tense

new duffy, jason mraz and indiana jones!

Here are some of the new releases for today!

Duffy- Rockferry
Duffy’s story is a fascinating one. She grew up in a very remote part of Whales without much musical influence surrounding her. She didn’t know what was cool, she just discovered a love of music and created an album that sort of transcends genre. Very charming.

Jason Mraz- We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things **Sam’s Pick**
It’s no secret that Mraz “found himself” while preparing to write and record his new album. Mraz’s lyrical style seems to only get better and better and this new album is some of the best new work I’ve heard. A MUST have.

Filter- Anthems for the Damned
The hardcore Filter fan may find this new release a disappointment, but new fans who haven’t been exposed to the rockin’ Filter of the mid-nineties might be ok with it. Just seems like the fire continues to fade with these guys. Kind of a bummer.

Evanescence- The Document Unauthorized CD/DVD
The DVD of this set has some new material, but the CD has interview material that has been previously released in some form or another. Take a good look at it before you add it to your collection.

City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra-The Indiana Jones Trilogy: New Recordings
Just in time to tantalize us before the release of the new movie later this month comes new recordings from the scores of all three movies. And do I have my tickets for the midnight showing on the 22nd? YES!!


Other releases worth noting:
Death Cab For Cutie- Narrow Stairs
Iron Maiden- Somewhere Back In Time: The Best of 1980-1989
Korn- Live at Montreux 2004 (DVD)
Ryan Cabrera- The Moon Under Water
We Are Scientists- Brain Thrust Mastery
Ted Nugent- Sweden Rocks: Live 2006
Meat Loaf and Bruce David Klein- Meat Loaf: In Search of Paradise (DVD)
Robert Cray- Live at the BBC **Sam’s Pick**
Tangerine Dream- Booster
Safetysuit- Life Left To Go
Joe Cocker- Hymn For My Soul
Visage- The Anvil
10 Years- Division
Old 97’s- Blame It On Gravity
Dokken- Lightning Strikes Again
Sountrack- The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (by Harry Gregson-Williams)
Keith Sweat- Just Me
The Black Angels- Directions To See A Ghost
Simone- Simone on SimonePendulum- In Silico


Thanks for reading!

xo,
Sam

finally! new gavin degraw!!

In no particular order... here are some of the new releases for today!

Clay Aiken- On My Way Here
This is Aiken’s second album of original material (the first was his debut in 2003). While looking for music for his album, he found Ryan Tedder’s (singer of OneRepublic) song “On My Way Here.” Obviously the vibe of that song became the foundation of the entire recording.

Neil Diamond- Home Before Dark (Deluxe Edition)
Yes… a NEW album from Neil! Splurge on the deluxe edition and you’ll get a bonus disc with vids.

Gavin DeGraw- Gavin DeGraw **Sam’s Pick**
My numero uno release for today! So far, my favorite track (except for In Love With a Girl that we’ve been playing for awhile on Alice) is Young Love. He played a beautiful acoustic version of the tune at AuNaturAlice 3 last month. Absolutely solid and I look forward to being able to sing along with every other song, too.

Elvis Costello and the Imposters- Momofuku
Momofuku Ando was the inventor of the Cup Noodle and this album is apparently a tribute to him. Since there is no way I can beat the description from Costello himself here is the link to his blog describing the album that is available on vinyl and CD. http://www.elviscostello.com/web/guest/news?p_p_process=1&p_p_globalparams=1&sSet=4559&sResource=27665
Costello is currently touring with the almighty Police and can be seen with them at Red Rocks July 21st. Rock-n-roll.

Barenaked Ladies- Snack Time
Snack Time could of course just be another goofy name for a BNL album, but it’s not… it’s actually the groups first album that features children’s songs… but adults will dig it as well! And if you still are aching for a new BNL that is not geared towards kiddos, then you’re in luck! They head back into the studio a bit later this year to record a new album that will be a celebration of their 20 years as a band.

Sneaker Pimps- Bloodsport **Sam’s Pick**
Though this is the groups third album, most people only know one song from them (6 Underground). Their brand of trip-hop is reminiscent of some of my favorite 90s British Alternative acts. Worth exploring if you want something new and fun.

Midnight Oil- Diesel and Dust (Enhanced)
This is the 20 year anniversary of the album and the newly released version is completely loaded with the original tracks (naturally…) and a bonus DVD with live cuts. Super cool release!

Other releases worth noting:
Soundtrack- Iron Man (by Ramin Djawadi)
Soundtrack- Lost: Season 3
Soundtrack- Speed Racer (by Michael Giacchino)
Soundtrack- Standard Operating Procedure (by Danny Elfman)
Dieselboy- Substance D
Machine 15- Millencolin
Josh Groban- Awake (Live CD/DVD)
Armin va Buuren- Imagine
The Last Shadow Puppets- Age of the Understatement
Johnny Mathis- A Night to Remember
Mindi Abair- Stars
Tokio Hotel- Scream
Tim McGraw- Tim McGraw’s Collector’s Edition
Dierks Bentley- Greatest Hits: Every Mile a Memory
Chris Sligh- Running Back To You
Craig David- Trust Me
Sawyer Brown- The Best of Sawyer Brown

Have a great day and thanks for reading!

xo,
Sam

take a very deeeeeep breath....

and dive right in... here is a HUGE list of new music for today! Also, if you liked the new Coldplay I played earlier (Violet Hill), their new album will be released June 17th. It is titled Viva La Vida.


Madonna- Hard Candy **Sam’s Pick**
She is back, amazing as ever with her 11th studio album! The Material Girl (ok… I know, cheesy) Madonna collaborated this time with Timbaland and Justin Timberlake as well as other key players. Also available today: A special edition of the album that includes some additional mixes and fun swag including actual ‘hard candy’ starlite mints.

Sarah McLachlan- Rarities, B-Sides 2 and Other Stuff, Volume 2
This is a must-have for Sarah lovers! The disc includes a hefty amount of Sarah’s b-sides, plus some excellent covers and rarely heard tunes. Some live tunes and remixes include. Great collection. The live recording of Angel with Emmylou Harris is awesome!

Newton Faulkner- Hand Built by Robots **Sam’s Pick**
Until today, this debut album from Faulkner was only available as an import. This album is gorgeous and a welcome addition to my singer/songwriter shelf. However, it’s impossible to really ‘get’ him unless you see him live. That is where you see why he is so unique. His musicianship and presence are truly amazing. We have a couple live cuts from him on the site… you can hear them by clicking this: http://alice1059.com/pages/291004.php . Awesome!

Augustana- Can’t Love, Can’t Hurt
The band’s second album shows a huge growth in their style. Not so much the music itself, but the songs overall. They have a much more mature vibe than All The Stars and Boulevards. As if knowing this, the group’s lead singer underwent an image overhaul that makes him barely recognizable to fans… but he looks goooooood.

Def Leppard- Songs from the Sparkle Lounge
Are we ready for DLs 14th album? Well, it’s here! With 11 brand new songs from the band that just won’t quit. The current single “Nine Lives” features Tim McGraw and the band has set out on another tour!

White Lion- Return Of The Pride
This is the sequel to the 80s band’s most successful album Pride. Of course, it comes over 20 years after Pride and there have been many albums in-between, but this is the group’s attempt to revisit that original sound. (This was previously available as an import).

Joy Division- the Best of Joy Division
This is a double-disc limited edition collection, featuring 14 greatest hits from Joy Division. The second disc has 8 bonus tracks recorded in ’79 in a couple different Peel Session.

The Slackers- Self Medication **Sam’s Pick**
This NYC-based Ska/Reggae band is awesome! Their live show is incredible. They swing through now and then, normally playing smaller Denver venues. If you see one, I highly recommend attending. I imagine they will be touring to support their new album so keep an eye out!

Portishead- Third **Sam’s Pick**
I have been waiting for this one for a while! Ever since they teased us with a couple new songs on their myspace page, I have been anticipating the new album and it’s finally here. Ambient, ethereal and just plain mesmerizing… Portishead is baaaack. And whoever saw them at Coachella last week? I’m so jealous.

Mudcrutch- Mudcrutch **Sam’s Pick**
Mudcrutch was Tom Petty’s band before the Heartbreakers and here they are with their debut album... uh, finally. The unmistakable vocals of Petty is mixed with old and new tunes with his pals. Something to truly smile about… I feel a road trip coming on!


Other releases worth noting:
The Chipmunks- Sing The Beatles Hits
The Roots- Rising Down
Testament- The Formation of Damnation
Puscifer- V is Viagra: The Remixes
Steve Winwood- Nine Lives **Sam’s Pick**
Forever the Sickest Kids- Underdog Alma Mater
New York Dolls- Live At The Fillmore East
Mindless Self-Indulgence- If
Robyn- Robyn
Nerf Herder- IV
Raven-Symone- Raven-Symone
Walls of Jericho- Redemption
Zero Hour- Dark Deceiver
Iced Earth- Enter the Realm of the Gods
The Cab- Whisper War
Griffin House- Flying Upside Down
Estelle- Shine
Brian Culbertson- Bringing Back the Funk


Thanks for reading!!

xo,
Sam

quirky to classic... we have it all today!

Here are some of the new releases today... hooray! Enjoy!

Flight Of The Conchords- Flight Of The Conchords **Sam’s Pick**
I became addicted to these guys and their quirky senses of humor when I first caught their show on HBO. Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement are from New Zealand and they have a very unique comedic style that combines acoustic guitars with very offbeat lyrics. Example? This clip from their song Business Time. The boys will be performing May 15th at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House.


Blind Melon- For My Friends
Travis Warren is the new voice of Blind Melon as they put out their first new album since 1995 (the year the band’s lead singer Shannon Hoon died). The rest of the members are original and you will hear music that resembles the Blind Melon you recall but they do try some different sounds on for size as well. Solid recording.


Whitesnake-Good To Be Bad
Boy-oh-boy… new Whitesnake. It’s been 10 years! Confession time. I love David Coverdale’s voice (always have) and this new disc sounds just as you would hope if you’ve been a fan of Whitesnake. There are some extras included here… a bonus disc with a handful of live recordings and a video for the single “Ready To Rock.”


Ashlee Simpson- Bittersweet World
Ashlee is admittedly in a happy place right now. Her career as a musician has so far been very successful and she’s plowed on through embarrassing situations… like the infamous SNL performance. In her own words “I wanted to make a party record.”


Lyrics Born- Everywhere At Once
Tom Shimura is the voice behind Lyrics born and his new album stretches him even further, showing what he is truly capable of doing in the musical genres of pop, R&B, hip hop and alternative. He’s a very gifted artist!


Story of the Year- Black Swan
This is album number 3 from SOTY and loyal fans will not be disappointed and if you’ve never checked them out… this may be the time since the band has admitted they really stepped it up on this one.



Other releases worth noting:
Armin van Buuren- Imagine
Billy Bragg- Mr. Love and Justice
Toyko Police Club- Elephant Shell
The Weepies- Hideaway
Atmosphere- When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That S*&@ Gold
Carol King- Tapestry Legacy Edition (2 CD)
Elbow- The Seldom Seen Kid **Sam’s Pick**
Phil Vassar- Prayer of a Common Man (Limited Edition)
Donny Osmond- From Donny With Love


Thanks for reading!

xo,
Sam

prepare yourself for a plethora of new music choices....

And here we go... some of today's new releases.




Mariah Carey- E=MC2
Carey is the most successful female recording artist of all time and this new release is most likely going to solidify that role. It’s been slightly over two years since Carey released her last album, The Emancipation of Mimi. She has more than a handful of superstar guests on this new one. It’s Mariah at her best and I’m guessing this will be one of the hottest albums for spring and summer. There is a deluxe edition out today as well that includes some special packaging, an iPod skin and some other goodies.

Hannah Montana- Best of Both Worlds (CD and DVD)
This is pulled directly from the sold-out “Best of Both Worlds” Tour. The CD has 14 of Hannah’s (Miley Cyrus) smash hits and for a deeper look at the tour, the included DVD has behind-the-scenes shots and pics.

Asia- Phoenix
Yes, this is a new album from Asia… in fact, the first in 25 years to feature the original line-up. Geoff Downes (Yes, The Buggles), Steve Howe (Yes), Carl Palmer (ELP), and John Wetton (King Crimson).

Rush- Snakes and Arrows (Live Double CD)
If you missed the tour last year, here’s your chance to hear it on the new live double disc release from Rush. Yes, the classics are there as well as some of the trio’s newer material.

Jimmies Chicken Shack- Fail On Cue
This is JCS’s 8th studio album since the release of their debut album High in the mid-nineties. Not much has changed with these guys.

The Clash LIVE: Revolution Rock (DVD) **Sam’s Pick**
Woo! This is an awesome new documentary that walks us through some amazing live performances from The Clash! Director Don Letts brilliantly arranged some incredible, never before released performances into one awesome ride. My numero uno pick for today!

Thrice- Alchemy Index, Vol. 3 & 4: Air and Earth
Thrice released Vol. 1 & 2 of this series last October. The Air shows Thrice’s softer side while Earth features them stripped down. The previous releases were titled Fire and Water.

The Kooks- Konk
Get the deluxe edition of Konk and you’ll get a bonus disc, plus a couple acoustic tracks and a handful of exclusive tracks. This is the band’s second album… their first is title Inside In/Inside Out. The Kooks are playing The Odgen on May 29th. Head to www.alice1059.com and go to the concert calendar for more.

James- Hey Ma
James has reunited for a brand new album. At this time, it’s only available as an import.

Erasure- Live At Royal Albert Hall (DVD)
This concert was a nice blend of Erasure’s classic hits and never material from their most recent album. Plus, goodies include never-before-released footage.

Everclear- The Vegas Years
This is an album of classic songs, covered by Seattle band Everclear. They are commemorating the release on the 20th with a live webcast from The Beach at Mandalay Bay in Vegas. If you visit http://www.everclearonline.com/ you can find out more. Lead singer Art Alexakis said he has wanted to do this album for over 10 years. These are not all new but the first time they have been compiled to form an album.


Other releases worth noting:
Phantom Planet- Raise The Dead
Lady Antebellum- Lady Antebellum
M83- Saturdays=Youth
Frank Black- Svn Fngrs **Sam’s Pick**
Tristan Prettyman- Hello
Ours- Mercy (Dancing For The Death Of An Imaginary Enemy)
Diana Reeves- When You Know
Children of Bodom- Blooddrunk
Does Offend You Yeah?- You Have No Idea What You’re Getting Yourself Into


I'm off to buy The Clash DVD!

Thanks for reading,
Sam

The Spirit of NIN Unfolds in today's new music!

Here are some of today's brand new releases as heard on my New Music Preview... you can catch it every Tuesday just after 12:30pm.



Leona Lewis- Spirit
Lewis won British talent competition X Factor and was snapped up by Clive Davis and Idol’s Simon Cowell and signed. Today is her debut album’s US release… she has all ready enjoyed immense success in the UK. Her list of awards and accolades is growing rapidly and her mix of R&B and pop is pulling in new fans every day. Fun fact: her first single from the album (Bleeding Love) was produced and co-written by Ryan Tedder, the singer from OneRepublic.

Marie Digby- Unfold
Marie (pronounced Mahr-ee-ay), Digby’s success began on youtube.com with a unique cover of Rihanna’s “Umbrella.” Since then, Marie has gathered millions of fans, gotten picked up by Hollywood Records and is in the Gap’s spring campaign along with 4 other artists.

Nine Inch Nails- Ghosts I-IV
This is a new 36-track collection of instrumental music from NIN. Recorded over a month and a half last fall. NIN continues to ground-break with this instrumental release. In Trent Reznor’s own words: “This music arrived unexpectedly as the result of an experiment. The rules were as follows: 10 weeks, no clear agenda, no overthinking, everything driven by impulse. Whatever happens during that time gets released as... something.” Reznor also said this will not be the only NIN release of this type. Look forward to more “Ghosts.”

The Breeders- Mountain Battles
I love the Pixies and in turn, have always looked forward to hearing Pixie Bassist Kim Deal’s other project’s releases! It’s been 6 years since we’ve heard from The Breeders and Kim’s songwriting is consistently impressive. The Breeders will be hitting the road this year, playing festivals and eventually a fall tour.

P.O.D.- When Angels & Serpents Dance
Longtime P.O.D. fans are calling this album a bit more of a return to the band’s roots. I have not yet had a chance to listen, but I have enjoyed a lot of their tunes in the past, so I will be giving it a shot.

Was (Not Was)-Boo!
It’s been 20 years since Was (Not Was) has released an album… and the members are all original and just weird as you remember.

Various- Punk Goes Crunk **Sam’s Pick**
Number 7 in a series of albums that have alt/punk/emo bands covering big tunes… this time, hip hop is the genre they chose the songs from. Extremely entertaining covers, some very… for lack of a better term… ballsy. **explicit lyrics**

The Feeling- Join With Us (Import Only)
This is an import, which is the only reason I haven’t yet listened. The Feeling was a part of the first VH1 You Oughta Know Tour and traveled with Mat Kearney and Rocco Deluca last year. I dug their first release, but rather than spend the 30 bucks for an import, I’ll wait for the US release.

Other releases worth noting:
The Long Blondes- Couples **Sam’s Pick**
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds- Dig!!! Lazarus Dig!!! (This is the special/limited edition release)
James Otto- Sunset Man
Cut Copy- In Ghost Colors
Paul Gilbert- Silence Followed By a Deafening Roar
Ashes Divide- Keep Telling Myself It’s All Right


Thanks for reading!!

xo,
Sam

oh yeah... it's tuesday again...

Meaning, time to talk new music! Here are some of today's releases:

R.E.M- Accelerate
Simplify simplify is what the band has done. Not meaning they are boring this time around. Not hardly. But, this is just the approach that I prefer from R.E.M. The tunes on Accelerate are guitar-driven and arranged very simple and straightforward. Plus! R.E.M. just announced a show at Red Rocks, Tuesday, June 3rd. Tickets will go on sale this Saturday, April 5th, 10am at Ticketmaster.

*There is also a bonus CD/DVD version of this released today as well that includes a film and two bonus tracks from the band.*

Van Morrison- Keep It Simple
It’s not often you are announcing the release of a musician’s 35th album. Morrison wrote the lyrics, arranged the songs, composed the music and produced this album. Naturally, he brought his expertise on the Saxophone and Harmonica into the mix… however, you won’t be hearing the big boomin’ horns that sometime accompany Morrison’s releases. He chose instead to make his impression with depth and complexity.

Muse- Haarp (CD/DVD)
The selections from this collection were chosen from the band’s HUGE shows at Wembley Stadium in London in 2006. Plus, included is some behind-the-scenes goodness for those of us who want a little bit more insight into the guys.

The Rolling Stones- Shine A Light
This is the deluxe edition, 2-disc set… of the soundtrack to Scorsese’s film “Shine A Light.” The documentary features performances from the Stone’s shows at The Beacon Theatre in New York in 2006. This deluxe set has 22 tracks (every single one from the film) plus a handful of bonus tracks that were cut from the film.

Moby- Last Night **Sam’s Pick**
From the man who plays multiple instruments, has rocked out in a hardcore punk band, is not quite or lethargic about his passion for animals and the environment… but is arguably best known for his work at a DJ. This is his latest work. Ambient and true-to-form, the tracks on Last Night are what you would expect from Moby… but a bit better! And the first single is called “Alice.” It’s enough to make me want to reevaluate my feelings about techno. Hehe.

Dream Theater- Greatest Hits (… and 21 other pretty cool songs)
Their first ever greatest compilation. The songs have have remastered and there are even a couple remixes as well to tantalize those of us willing to admit we still love Dream Theater. Ahem… me.

Fall Out Boy- Live In Phoenix
This is available on CD and DVD. There have been limited engagements in theaters, but as of today… you can enjoy your own private showing whenever you like. The show was taped in Phoenix’s Cricket Pavilion during last year’s Honda Civic Tour. Outtakes and behind-the-scenes are included on the DVD… including all 8 of the groups video clips in chronological order. Plus, John Mayer fans... there is a studio recording of John Mayer with the band, covering the Michael Jackson tune "Thriller."


Other releases worth noting:
The Blue Man Group- How To Be A Megastar Live! (CD/DVD)
The Osmonds- Live In Las Vegas 50th Anniversary Reunion Concert (LIVE)
Sevendust- Chapter VII (Hope and Sorrow) **Sam’s Pick**
Theory of a Deadman- Scars and Souvenirs
The Sword- Gods of the Earth
Sun Kil Moon- AprilThe Black Keys- Attack & Release


Thanks for reading!

xo,
Sam

you wanted choices? you got 'em!

Here are some of this week's new releases as heard on my show. You can catch the new releases every Tuesday at 12:35 pm during my show. :)

Thanks for listening!


The Raconteurs- Consolers Of The Lonely
Jack White (White Stripes) other project is giving us yet another collection of quirky, rockin' tunes. In conjunction with the release today, they are also posting the video for the first single off the album... "Salute Your Solution." You can catch them on tour at The Fillmore on April 28th.

Counting Crows- Saturday Nights and Sunday Mornings
Their first studio album in nearly 5 years! Dread-tressed lead singer Adam Duritz was quoted as saying this album "is about me."

The B-52s- Funplex
So, the Counting Crows haven't put out an album in nearly 5 years. Triple that amount of time, add another year and you have the length of time from the last B-52s album! Yes, 16 years! They have not lost the ability to just get crazy, have fun and entertain in their special way. Longtime fans will find this collection of new tunes absolutely PURE B-52s... only newer! Cindy Wilson, who skipped an appearance on the last album (Good Stuff 1092) is back as well with her former bandmates. Fred Schneider's vocals are as recognizable as ever.

Panic At The Disco- Pretty. Odd
Some changes for the band.. first, notice the exclamation point from the word Panic is now gone. Also, the guys opted this album to use real instruments... in an effort to simplify their sound. The evolution of Panic has taken a very large jump. You'll find the song titles are still long, but they make a little more sense this time around and the music is much more melodic. Let's see if the fans dig it.

Morrissey- Greatest Hits (Deluxe Version)
This double disc set includes 8 live tracks and pretty much ever classic track from Morrissey. The Greatest is being released in 3 versions.. this particular one being the Deluxe.

Tim O'Brien- Chameleon **Sam's Pick**
This is a fantastic new release from folk genius O'Brien. Makes me want to either chill in a hammock and space out for a few hours or hit the road for point undecided!

Anna Nalick- Shine EP
This is an EP featuring Anna's two past hits in new acoustic recordings ("Breathe" and "Wreck of the Day"), plus her new single "Shine" both full and acoustic and a cover of "Breaking the Girl" from the Red Hot Chili Peppers.



Additional Releases:

The Lemonheads- It's A Shame About Ray Collector's Edition (Collector's rerelease)

Pennywise- Reason To Believe

Lindsay Buckingham- Live At The Bass Performance Hall (CD and DVD)

Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who Soundtrack- composer: John Powell

Mike Oldfield- Music of the Spheres

Enrique Iglesias-95/08 (CD and DVD)

WWE: The Music Vol. 8

Day 26- Day 26



xoxo,
Sam

the ballet

Ok. I have to admit something. I have never claimed to like the ballet. My family never made a priority out of attending that 'type' of cultural entertainment. In fact, I had sort of got into my head that ballet was for uppity, dull and snooty folks. Plus, I secretly thought it just had to be boring. And I had never even SEEN a ballet. My limited exposure with it was when I took a ballet class as a child... my teacher pretty much told me I did not (and never would) have the body of a ballerina. Well, she was right, but... hello... rude!

That was previous to my first ever ballet attendance. Last year I took a group of ladies (one of my many Sam's Six in the City outings) to the production of Where The Wild Things Are. I will readily admit... it was quite impressive. The props were amazing and the dancing mezmerising. I didn't gush about it, though. I wasn't quite ready to admit that I enjoyed myself. Since then, I've caught the ballet now and then.

After this past weekend's viewing of the Repertory Series with another Six in the City winner (Jay and his family were so nice!), I have decided to not be a closet ballet fan any more. I like the ballet. There. I said it. I'm proud I conquered my utterly ridiculous stereotypes about the kind of people that enjoy watching the ballet. I'm not closeminded... I was just ill-educated in the matter. But I tried it out and I liked it. I find it extremely relaxing for the most part and after attending ballets, I find my mind is uncluttered and I'm able to think a little more clearly. I don't really know why, but I like that feeling.

I suppose the main point here would be to ask if you have something in your life that you have never done simply because you don't have a clear idea on what it is or if it's for you. Stop for a moment and ponder it. Is there something you've never even thought to try? Something completely accessible but never accessed? This year, try ONE thing that you don't think is your thing... you might hate it, but then again... you might find something that enriches your life in a small or big way.

Thanks for reading!!

xo,
Sam

new soul, baby.

First off... for those of you who have seen the t.v. spots for the new Macbook Air may wonder whose song is playing. Well, that just happens to be my first new release to tell you about today!

Yael Naim- Yael Naim
For those of us crazy about chill chicks, here is something to check out immediately! Ethereal vocals and beautiful instrumentation make a super cool, super chill album. Yael actually does a cover of Britney Spears "Toxic." Whoa.

She and Him Vol. 1- She & Him (Artist), M. Ward (Performer), Zooey Deschanel (Performer)
Zooey was in the movie Elf with Will Ferrell and that's where some of us got our first earful of her killer singing voice (Baby.. it's coooold outside! hehe). This is the musical debut from the pair, brought together by director Martin Hayens.

Devotchka- A Mad And Faithful Telling **Sam's Pick**
This is the Anti (label) release of Colorado favs Devotchka's record. They are doing an in-store signing today at 6pm at Twist and Shout on Colfax.

Sara Bareilles- Little Voice (2-disc set)
Sara's CD is re-released with an additional bonus disc that includes stripped versions of some tunes (video versions, too) and an interview with Sara.

New Found Glory- Hits
The band's first greatest hits includes their most popular singles, plus some album cuts and some never released material.


More fun stuff:
The Kills- Midnight Boom
Destroyer- Trouble in Dreams **Sam's pick**
Daniel Lanois- Here Is What Is
The Hush Sound- Goodbye Blues **Sam's pick**
The Marches- A Band In Hope
Be Your Own Pet- Get Awkward
Switches- Lay Down the Law

The Presidents... as in the band...

Remember those guys? They are the highlight of my new release feature today. So, without further ado, here we go:

New releases for March 11, 2008

The Presidents of the United States of America- These Are The Good Times People
These guys are from my old stompin' ground (Seattle) and their simple, straightforward, fun and quirky tunes have always held a special place in my heart. I still have my LUMP sticker from the promotional mailing of their first album. One of my favorite interviews was with them a few years back. They completely took over my studio and had me laughing so hard I was crying! Plus Dave borrowed a long black and red wig of mine and wore it while busting into the second songAnyhow, here they are with a new album and 14 new delightfully fun tracks! They are currently touring, but nowhere near us quite yet. Boo!

Shawn Mullins- Honeydew
Shawn's Myspace page says it nicely: Shawn Mullins lives in Atlanta, he writes the songs that you might have heard in your friend's car.
Honeydew could be the one your friends hear in your car?

Now That's What I Call Music Vol 27- Various Artists
Vol. 27 includes tunes from Sara Bareilles, Jordin Sparks, Santana & Chad Kroeger, Fergie, OneRepublic etc.. basically. All smash hits, baby.

Now That's What I Call The 80s- Various Artists
Yes, the 80s are back, apparently and here for your listening pleasure, 20 hot tracks from the decade that brought us Hypercolor and the snap bracelet. Everything from Whitesnake to Billy Joel.

Snoop Dog- Ego Trippin'
Good to know that even though he's become a reality tv star and keeps himself in the producing world, our beloved Snoop is still cranking out the tunes. Hard to believe this is album number 9!

Meshuggah- Obzen
One for the metalheads.

Randy Jackson- Randy Jackson's Music Club Vol. 1
Randy is celebrating the launch of his new label (Dream Merchant 21) and asked artists to record for this compilation. You will find artists like Richie Sambora, Mariah Carey and Joss Stone along with some of the Idol darlings.

10,000 B.C. Soundtrack- Score

crunchless abs and all that...

Working out has never been fun for me. When I was in high school I participated a bit (softball, volleyball and cheerleading) but I am truly one of those people that does NOT enjoy running. I have tried. I HATE it. It took me ages to find the perfect workout for me. Yoga. I started doing yoga casually about a year ago and now I'm pretty into it. My only problem?

**Confession Time**

I have a paralyzing fear of working out in a group setting. It goes beyond the normal of feeling self-conscious or like everyone is watching. In fact, I don't know if those two things come into play at all. I have just never enjoyed having someone right in my face telling me and a bunch of others what to do. The only group excercise I've ever been able to enjoy was boxing, but it was still difficult. It's not that I haven't given it several shots. I have. It's just not for me, I guess.

Basically, I have decided I will never be comfortable doing my workouts with others around me. So, how can I safely do yoga in my home and not kill myself? I have a very dear friend who is a certified yoga instructor and I consult her regularly on my form, moving on to more advanced positions etc. So far it has worked for me. I'm a big fan of the workout dvd and I have over the past year found some amazing ones... Shiva Rea for example. Her yoga dvds are awesome. She has beautiful surroundings, a calm voice, great workouts and meditation segments. I have come to the conclusion that yoga has struck a chord with me because it not only helps the bod, but it helps the mind. That is a combination that I require in order to truly get something out of a structured workout.

The one thing I'm missing is a good cardio workout. I have never been good at cardio workouts (again, the boxing was awesome... but classes are hard for me). I have wished and wished I liked to run... or JOG even. I have tried to force myself to like it. In high school when we ran laps for softball and volleyball I was always last, always dying, always miserable. No matter how often I did it, I still felt like I could not gain cardio strength. It's almost like my lungs can't handle it, you know? So, I have in vain tried to find something that I enjoy in that department. And let's be clear- at this point, the only times you will see me running are as follows:

1. I'm in the restroom and I hear that Alice has gone off the air.
2. There is a person running after me with some sort of weapon & an obvious harmful intention.
3. I'm being chased by a bear.

Oh, before I get any suggestions of aerobics of any kind- don't. Those are just plain annoying. There is nothing worse than a hyper barbi doll telling me that I'm doing a great job and to keep going... one. more. time. yay! Hey, I'm not saying it's ineffective or bad, it just doesn' t appeal to me. Yes, been there, done that. Got the shirt. Burned it.

Well, I guess it took me until age 32 to discover yoga was just what I needed. I suppose any day now I will stumble upon the perfect cardio workout. The one that is tailored for the ever-picky Sam Hill. Well, Shiva does have a Trance Dance dvd.

Until then: namaste

Thanks for reading (my ramblings... because that is all today was!)

xo,
Sam

NTT- New Tune Tuesday, that is.

First, I would like to invite you one last time to check out my very special guest today at 2pm. Colbie Caillat will be in the Alice Studio to chat with me and sign a few autographs for lucky A-List members who won a spot in house while Colbie visits. With that said:

Here are some of the new releases for today: February 12th, 2008

Michael Jackson- Thriller 25
25 stands for 25 years... wow! It's pretty safe to say that Jackson has taken the hugest album of all time and commemorated it in a pretty awesome way! There are 7 bonus tracks (6 you've never heard before), including remixes from Kanye West, Akon, Fergie etc...

Also included, a bonus DVD and a color booklet with rare pics and lyrics. Definitely some delish goodies for the MJ fan.

Widespread Panic- Free Somehow
This makes album 17 for WP. If you've followed them live, don't think you've heard these tunes before because a lot of them were not debuted during touring. That is fairly unusual for WP... true fans would agree!

Simple Plan- Simple Plan
3 albums in and Simple Plan has proved that you can grow and evolve without losin' it. This is probably my favorite album so far from these guys. True, it's a bit of a departure from their first two, but in my first couple listens, I found the changes fun and sonically pleasing.

Type O Negative- Dead Again (Deluxe CD/DVD)
Ok... I love Type O and I have plenty I could say about them, but when I read the product description on Amazon, I had to chuckle to myself. I can't beat this:

Just in time for Valentine s Day... The perfect gift for your girlfriend s girlfriend... If she happens to be a Christian woman, she might feel a bit threatened, but she can always sit back and watch Reverend Steele and the Drab Four ministry preach to 70,000 adoring fans at the 2007 Wacken Open Air on the bonus DVD.

Other releases:
Natalie Grant- Relentless
Nancy LaMott- Ask Me Again


Thanks for reading,
Sam

hungry+angry = hangry

This morning I was chatting with Mikey (the morning show producer) on the air briefly and I told him I knew exactly what I was going to write about today. I want to introduce you to a new word. I wouldn't say on-air what the word is because I didn't want to spoil my writings for today, which led Mikey to believe it had to be a naughty word of some type. Not at all. This is family friendly... haha!

True, it's a hybrid word, but it's my new fav. There's not a ton of risk of it being overused, which makes it even more appealing. (flashback moment to the whaazzzzzup nightmare)

The word is 'hangry.' I have to thank Eric (the boyfriend) for this little gem. He, like me, gets a bit cranky when a mealtime has passed and nothing has been consumed. Several weeks ago he was in full-on cranky mode and I asked him what on earth was wrong. He answered, "Nothing babe... it's not your fault... I'm just a bit hangry."

You'd think I wouldn't have to ask what that meant, but I still did (just to be sure) and received the obvious answer: Hangry is when you are really hungry and it's starting to make you a bit upset because your body is unhappy with lack of sustinance. You get cranky and a tiny bit angry... all because of hunger. Therefore: Hangry.

It is a personal mission to make this a household word. I'm not claiming first use. I just want to help further the cause. Then I will try to get it added to the dictionary. Hey, if blog can be added, why can't hangry?

Go forth! Use it! Enjoy it!

And most of all, don't take everything so seriously.

Thanks for reading,
Sam

double dippin' on the new music is ok.. tales from the elevator... bum bum buuuuuum!

Here are some of the new releases for today: February 5th, 2008

Lenny Kravitz-It Is Time For A Love Revolution
Lenny's 8th studio album is a bit of a return to the rockin' Lenny I used to love. Honestly, in the past, I've sort of lost my adoration for him because of a lot of the wimpy, slow material he's put out. I've only listened to this album a couple times, but I'm liking it much more than his past 4 releases. Plus, if you saw his recent show at the Paramount, you know this man can rock it.. even in skinny jeans. Ha!

Sheryl Crow-Detours
The super cool thing about this new album from Sheryl is that she has joined up once again with the producer who was with her on Tuesday Night Music Club (Bill Bottrell). Obviously, the struggles that she has conquered in the past few years are her inspiration for the songs on this album. She totally delivers!

Jack Johnson-Sleeping Through The Static
Alice has been playing the new single from Jack called "If I Had Eyes." In keeping with his signature sound, Jack doesn't choose to depart from it here. Another solid album from one of the most pleasant singer/songwriters we have!

Josh Kelley-Special Company
Josh is no stranger to the Alice Studio. Every time he swings through town, he drops by to say hello. I have always been blown away by his powerful voice and catchy tunes. You can tell this boy is majorly in looooove with his new wife, Katherine Heigl. All together now... Awwwwwwww.

k.d. lang- Watershed
k.d. launched herself into producing on this new album. I have always loved her sultry voice from the first second I heard the song Constant Craving. This new album is a wide self-interpretation of everything that is k.d... in her own words and own production. For true fans of this beautiful voice, this is a must have.

Other releases worth noting:
Taylor Dayne- Satisfied (yup... this is new material!)
They Might Be Giants- Here Come The 123s (this is an exclusive release on Amazon with a bunch of extras for all you TMBG lovers out there).
Kenny G- Rhythm and Romance
Conjunto Primavera- Que Ganas de Volver
Nada Surf-Lucky (I love these guys but haven't had a chance to listen yet)
Hot Chip-Made In The Dark (CD/DVD)

BJ, Howie and Jennifer has this segment this morning on double-dipping. I hope you didn't miss it... it was a bit gross, but highly amusing and the stories were great. Hopefully, the segment will make it onto their best of broadcast that runs on Saturday mornings from 8-10am.

This morning when I finally arrived at work I ended up standing in the lobby for 10 minutes with a growing group of people waiting for the elevators. We have 4, but they don't often work quite right. The button was pushed but nothing was happening. Now, I'm NOT afraid of a few stairs, but this morning I rose early to shovel my driveway and then ended up kicking my butt in a morning yoga routine (my excercise of choice). Our studios are on the 11th floor and I was in no mood to climb.

Finally, the elevators arrived and we all crammed on to head to our respective floors. I was tempted to bring up the time I got trapped in the elevator... on a Sunday evening... alone...for 20 minutes. May not have been the best story for a group of people running late for work!

At the time, I had cell service that did not work in our elevators (or in my office, or the bathroom or anywhere for that matter) and I couldn't call for aid. Fortunately, I am not terribly claustrophobic and I rarely panic. I just kept pushing the button, prying a bit at the door and praying that eventually it would open. On Sunday evenings there is hardly anyone in our building and the few djs that are on the air are for the most part in their studios, so hope of rescue that way was non-existent.

I don't know what happened, but after around 20 minutes... the door slowly slid open. I was still on the 11th floor and if you think I got back in that thing, you are crazy!! I gladly walked down the 11 flights.

Now, getting trapped in our elevators isn't necessarily the only thing that can happen when you decide to walk through the sliding doors. I'm talking flat out possession! Enough to where I'm considering calling on TAPS to investigate the possibility of paranormal activity. One of my favorite possession instances was when me and three of my coworkers were waiting at the top for a ride down. Ooh, we were lucky that day (or so we thought) because TWO elevators opened for us. We all looked at each other and darted into both of them. I was with my promotions coordinator Merrick. A production guy and our creative director Kyle leaped into the other. The race to the bottom floor was on!

The only problem was, both elevators stopped on every other floor (where absolutely no one was waiting)... they would slowly open... then slowly close and inch downward. By the second time this occurred, we understood. We were going to be stopping on every other floor... all the way down to 1. Rather than just stand there, the guys in the opposite elevator began striking poses reminiscent of the old Family Fued intros where the families froze in a strange pose as they were revealed. Every time the doors opened, those guys were in a different position. I have never laughed so hard in my life!

Basically, there are worse things than being stuck in a possessed elevator. I won't lie, there are certainly better things, too.

Have a great day and thanks for reading.

xo,
Sam

time to take down the lights...

Hope you had a great weekend! For the first time in my life, I didn't watch the Superbowl. I don't know why... I suppose I wasn't really in the mood anyway and since I had work to do here and around my home I just decided to opt out all together. I didn't even know who won until I checked my email this morning from home. Of course, when I don't watch it's the most exciting game ever. Oh well.

The rest of my weekend was fun, though.

I have this delightfully adorable friend named Natalie. She loves Christmas more than anyone I know! I haven't known her and her hubby for very long (only a few months), but the first time I went to their home in early November of last year I was stunned into silence by the sheer magnitude of her decorating. It is quite impressive.

I grew up in a family that placed great importance on the holiday season. Since I've moved away from my family, I've become used to not getting totally worked up over Christmas, choosing instead to spend it with friends (the family you choose) and keeping everything pretty low-key. Natalie's love for Christmas definitely rekindled mine this year. Well, this past weekend, she threw a "Last Chance For Christmas" party at her house. One last hurrah before taking on the monumental task of undoing her decorating. Cute idea, I thought, plus I was able to get some use for the little holiday velvet dress I purchased for our yearly staff holiday party. I never wore it because we never ended up having our yearly holiday party. I'm going to have to find out what the heck happened with that! Anyway, twas a fun party and I nearly forgot at one point that it wasn't actually the holidays. There were holiday cookies, hot toddies... even gifts exchanged.

Then I woke up the next morning, realized it was actually February and I needed to take my Christmas lights down off my own house before my neighbors started circulating a petition to have me removed from the neighborhood. I'm guess I'm ready to let it go. I'm tired of being cold.

Spring... where are you??

Thanks for reading,

Sam

bring on the brits! get your fash-ON and the oceanic 6

Ok, so I'm very excited to see The Editors, Hot Hot Heat and Louis XIV tonight at the Bluebird. Yes, it's true... The Editors are the only British group in the line-up, but the others (Canadian and Californian) compliment them well.

I was in attendance the last time The Editors played the Bluebird. Stellastarr* opened and after the show, my friends and I wandered down to the Atomic Cowboy just in time to catch an argument between two inebriated fellows about who was better. Yeah, not that interesting of a conversation. Had it broke out in a massive fight... well, I may have a better story. Not that I condone fighting by all means! I would've merely had something more interesting to report. Needless to say, my memory of their discussion is less than mediocre. Ha!

Anyhow, I've all ready seen all three acts (HHH twice) but never all three together, so I'm anticipating a fun time.

On an Alice note.. time is running out for Tell-A-Friend, Take-A-Friend. If you aren't familiar, it's our big contest we've been running for the past few weeks. One Alice listener (and their best friend) will be heading to New York for a weekend of shopping... we're coverin' hotel, air, ground transport and 8 grand for shopping. Plus, we've been handing out some killer qualifying prizes. I've had a tough time with this one because I would LOVE to head to New York with that kind of money. Hahaha! Too bad I can't win, huh?

Seriously, though, we only have one more week where we are going to be qualifying people, so get registered! www.alice1059.com You can enter there, plus check out the official rules in case you have any questions.

Speaking of NY and fashion...I've always desired to be on that show What Not To Wear. The biggest problem? I don't have what they consider bad fashion and people that get nominated for that show are the WORST of the worst in the getting dressed department. Sure, Stacey and Clinton would probably break out in hives after viewing my collection of combat boots and uber-short mod dresses, but they don't go see the periodic metal show at 3 Kings Tavern so they can shut it!!

Otherwise, most of the time I think I dress decently, if not a bit schitzo. Yeah, I've never been able to decide exactly what my "style" is (if you can even call it style), but I definitely like to rock the pretty girly dresses one day and badass rocker chick stuff the next. Don't people like me deserve to get 5 thousand dollars to spend in New York while receiving fashion advice from two experts? Sigh. I'm a girl in love with her clothing and I suffer from a problem many of us have... insufficient funds to support my habit. :)

All righty... my last subject: Lost

Ok, now that they have decided to abandon the Flashback in favor of the even MORE disturbing Flashforward, we now know that only 6 people apparently made it off The Island. They are referred to as the Oceanic 6. We have seen flashforwards with Hurley, Kate and Jack so we know they made it. Who were the other three? Who the heck is in that coffin?

As always, Lost has left us with more questions than actual answers. I've never been the type of person to sit down and speculate about what I think is going on... my thought process is more internal. I think I have this weird desire to really know what's going on and heaven forbid my speculation be wrong. Haha! I know it's silly... but I like being right (just ask my boyfriend-who also likes to be right. Yes, always entertaining.). But just for the record, I think Locke is in the coffin. There, I went out on a limb.

Have a great weekend and thanks for reading!

xo,
Sam

platonic relationships- pullin' my foot back out...

A few days ago, I was chatting on the phone with some listeners who had qualified for our big contest (Tell-A-Friend, Take-A-Friend). During the course of our conversation, I asked the male and female callers how they had become best friends. They answered "We met through work." and I responded that it was cool to know their were 'other' platonic male/female best friends out there... see, my best guy friend and I have never been anything but that... platonic friends.

That's where they both got quiet and mumbled something about it not really being like that.

So, I moved on from the slightly odd moment we were all having, explained that MY best friend was a male... yadda yadda. End of story, right? Hardly!

Over the past couple of days, I have received more phone calls and emails about this subject than I ever anticipated. One man wrote this:

Sam, Wanted to comment on your phone a friend-take a friend comments yesterday. Like you I too have a best friend who is of the opposite sex. As a matter of fact she was the best man in my wedding. It is definitely possible to have a plutonic relationship with a member of the opposite sex. Don't let anyone ever dissuade you from a strong friendship. Kudos too you... Jim

That particular email made me laugh because my best guy friend has always said he wants me to stand up for him when the time comes for him to walk down the aisle. I find it an honor, but there has only been one thing that has made me nervous. My best guy's last two serious(ish) girlfriends hated me.... neither of them ever met me in person or spoke to me on the phone or even sent an email. You see, my best friend lives in LA and I only get to see him a few times a year. We have never had anything but the coolest platonic (almost brother/sister situation) relationship and yet both of these nutty girls felt supremely threatened by me yet never made the effort to get to know me or even meet me!

Enough time has passed to where I've sort of forgotten the crazy crap the first girl pulled, but the most recent girl actually told him that she felt I should've sent her an email introducing myself and letting her know that I had nothing but friend intentions towards her new man... aka: my best friend. She told him it actually pissed her off... and they had only been dating a couple months!!

I nearly fell off my chair laughing at that! Is this woman NUTS? Well, apparently she did that to her best friend's new girlfriend. Basically, the way I interpret an act like that is a power play. It would be like telling your best friend's new lady that she was in no certain terms going to usurp your importance in his life. I would never want to alienate the person my best friend cares about by sending this not very cleverly disguised "message" to watch it. It sounds borderline insane to me.

Well, this was unfortunately NOT an isolated instance of this woman spreading the craziness. When I flew down to visit my best friend, she bet him a dollar that I would come onto him during my two days hanging out with him and other various friends. I only had one word to say at that point... WOW. Then once I composed myself, I asked him if he was going to dump her... he all ready had.

Not having ever experienced really intense, madness-inducing jealousy in my own life, I always find these sort of people quite hard to understand. What makes someone so intensely worried that they attack not only the object of their affection, but that person's close friends and family?

I'm of the belief that even if I've been hurt (and yes, I have been cheated on in the past), it doesn't give me license to treat everyone as if they are going to do the same thing to me. So, being hurt isn't an excuse to me. We all get hurt, right? It's up to us how we process it and we do need to process it. The hurt can't just sit there and simmer for all eternity while we harbor suspicion about everyone around us. We can certainly learn what to watch for, how to be more aware of when things are not feelin' right, but we cannot project that pain onto person after person. Nobody wins!

Ok, off the soapbox. Thanks for all the calls and emails telling me about your platonic relationships. I could go on and on about this subject, but I think I've typed enough for today.

Thanks for reading!!

xoxoxoxo,
Sam