2011 Grammy’s were Redonkulous
Perhaps it was just me, but the Grammy’s were pretty darn awesome this year. Besides Taylor Swift not being there of course. Arcade Fire won album of the year?? Their performance was both weird and awesome at the same time. Best new artist was not Bieber, but Esperanza Spalding?? Where did this awesome gal even come from? These Grammy organizers really know what’s up. But BY FAR the best performance of the night was from Mumford & Sons and The Avett Brothers. I felt like I was seeing them at a local bar. Loved the stage set up. If you missed it, check it out…
2011 Grammy Performance: Bob Dylan, Mumford & Sons, The Avett Brothers
Tags: Acoustic, Amanda loves, Folk, Grammys, Indie, Mumford & Sons, The Avett Brothers
Ari Hest, a grown up Matt
Oct 6, 2010 Artists
Ok, so it is a little obvious. At least to me. That Matt Nathanson, Matt Kearney…They all sound the same right? They sound the same, sing the same tunes, and so that is why they typically don’t make my top 10 list. If you haven’t noticed by now, I tend to be drawn to the musicians that have that “something special” that no one else does. They may sound different, but different is good. They are not for everyone’s tastes. Well, today I want to talk about another Matt Nathanson and Matt Kearney. His name is Ari Hest. And yes, I am just now discovering him. Late to the game, I know. Here’s the difference with him: He has an album with Rosi Golan. Done and done. Just for that, he makes the top of my list. And maybe I’ve been a little harsh. If Matt or Matt saw this, they may be a little hurt. I’m sure to them their music is “unique”. It’s just not to my ear. Not that they would ever read this blog. ANYWAYS, Ari has this certain quality, a grown up sound to his voice. It’s so deep. And his new album with Rosi? Killer. They are really really good together. So check it out. It’s only 5 songs, but I seriously can listen to them over and over again on my 30 minute drive to work and it doesn’t get annoying. It’s acoustic, laid back music with that haunting twist to it. My kind of music. So listen to it. Or don’t. You do whatever you want with your life, but I wouldn’t suggest missing out on it.
Bio: He released his first studio album in 2004 Someone to Tell. He is a college music professor and plays a variety of horns instruments.
Influences: Dave Matthews, U2, Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam, Tears for Fears

Tags: Acoustic, Ari Hest, Rosi Golan
I Don’t Wanna Wait
Jul 6, 2009 Artists
A couple months ago I was searching the online music directory from the tv show One Tree Hill.
http://www.cwtv.com/music/one-tree-hill
I know, a little juvenile, but that show has amazing music. Anyways, I found what I now claim is the most mythical music I have ever heard . Her name is Rosi Golan, born in Israel, and her voice and music can put you into a dream-like state. I listen to a lot of music that sounds the same, but Rosi has a unique sound and style with words that are so simple and real. If you have the honor of seeing her live, she will leave you mesmerized. Listen to her ENTIRE cd and I promise you you will get a much more than $10 in return. My personal favorites are:
> The Drifter & The Gypsy
> Come Around
> Think of Me
> Hazy with William Fitzsimmons
> Been a Long Day
Ok, I think that’s enough favorites.
Tags: Acoustic, Amanda loves, CW, Folk, Indie, One Tree Hill, Pop, Rosi Golan