One Tin Soldier - The Original Caste

An early 60's protest song written by Canadians, this version was performed by the band The Original Caste. It's roots are considered Biblical, and carries a strong message in it. I especially like the big band sound that accompanies it, and the singing is incredibly moving as well.

Time is Running out - Muse

Great song by a band I don't know too much about, the lyrics in this song are incredibly written. I've heard several acoustic versions of this song and they all sound awesome mainly based on the fact of how well this song is written. Great start with a build up to the chorus, Muse is worth checking out for the strength of this song.

Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy - Elton John

A later Elton John hit, off the album of the same name, it is a concept album about Captain Fantastic (Elton John) and the Brown Dirt Cowboy (His lyricist, Bernie Taupin), and the beginning of their career and the struggles they endured. It feels ultimately personal, and there are a lot of great songs off this album. It has an easy feel that can easily be identified with for anyone who has had to struggle to pursue a dream.

Lodi - Creedance Clearwater Revival

A great song by one of the great writers, John Fogarty, this is a song about the struggling musician and the shitty little venues he has to play when first starting out. Lodi is a small town in California not far from where CCR got their start, and one of the first places they performed. Apparently, according to the band, there was only about 10 people at the show and they wanted the music turned down. Still, a great song that I really feel shows the humble beginnings of an incredible band.

The Royal We - Silversun Pickups

I went to Silversun tonight and it was phenomenal. Great music and an incredible show just cemented in my mind how much talent this band has. The Royal We has become my favorite song by them so I was not disappointed when it was the song they played the best live. Hailing from California, this band has a very smooth feel on their second album as compared to a more rocking first album. This band is worth a listen and should be a definite inspiration to any female bassists, as Nikki is in a league of her own.

I Wish That I Could See You Soon - Herman Dune

Been awhile, but this one is for you. A nice little song that has captured my thoughts for the day. Happy Birthday

Kaili - Caribou

Another song that may not seem totally my style, I just saw Caribou in concert last week and was blown away. Dan Snaith's ability to design songs that rise and fall, only to rise again is incredible, along with the overlap and development of musical sounds. This was only enhanced with a live show, especially the drumming which blew me away. This is off his newest album Swim, which I grabbed the vinyl for at the show, and is worth checking out.