Many of my friends and colleagues often ask me, “Andrew, I need new music! Give me suggestions!”  Oh my gosh, if you will just calm down for one second I’m going to blog about it.  You people need to just get off my case and let me do my work.  Prepare to be satisfied.

1. Carolina Chocolate Drops

Twitter: @_CCDs

First off, here’s an interesting fact: the Carolina Chocolate Drops are signed to Ramseur Records, owned by Mr. Dolph Ramseur, who not only owns a record label, but is also the manager for many bands, including my favorite band of all time, the Avett Brothers.  I think it is fair to say if you like the Avett Brothers you will like this band.  Now don’t misinterpret me, this band is not the Avett Brothers.  However, they are a lot like the Avett Brothers in that they have many different styles.  They have some good ole southern bluegrass, some female solo tracks, some ethnic songs, a little bit of everything really.  They are a very talented group of musicians, regularly switching instruments with each other and putting on quite entertaining live performances.  I highly recommend you listen to the Carolina Chocolate Drops.

2. Justin Townes Earle

Twitter: @JustinTEarle

Aside from the fact that he is a huge jerk on Twitter, constantly complaining about various things, Justin Townes Earle is an incredibly talented blues/folk/rock songwriter and musician.  If you are familiar with old folk and blues musicians such as Robert Johnson and Stephen Foster, add a modern twist and you end up with Justin.  His songs are teeming with catchy melodies and lovable lyrics, and aside from being classified as blues it will put a smile on your face.

3. Trampled By Turtles

Twitter: @tbtduluth

I would have to say without a doubt that Trampled By Turtles are musically the most talented group of musicians that I’ve been listening to lately.  With Dave Carroll shredding the banjo, Ryan Young scorching the fiddle, and Dave Simonett’s meaningful lyrics & smooth guitar playing, this band is simply outstanding when everything comes together.  Also I’ve been on this kick lately where I will only listen to bands that are better live than on their recordings, and this is definitely one of those bands.  If you like modern folk/bluegrass you will love Trampled By Turtles.

4. JJ Grey & Mofro

Twitter: @JJGREYandMOFRO

I don’t know about you, but I thoroughly enjoy listening to music that sprouts with emotions that make you feel what the artist is feeling.  JJ Grey & Mofro create endless albums of this caliber that never disappoint.  JJ Grey himself, playing multiple instruments and providing outstanding vocals as well, is a truly amazing songwriter.  Quite brilliant blues/rock music from this group of talented musicians, and, like the other artists on this list, if you have a chance to see them live do NOT pass it up!

5. Voxtrot

Twitter: @voxtrot and @rameshinspace

This last artist on the list is a bit different.  Aside from the fact that they no longer exist, Voxtrot only has one full-length album along with a few EP’s and singles.  This being said, they really have some good stuff out there.  The previous bands that I’ve been talking about have all been blues, folk, rock, bluegrass, or a mixture of a few.  This band I would classify as indie pop/rock.  They have a sound that is remarkably similar to The Smiths, so if you like them you should definitely check out Foxtrot.  If you do like this band a lot and want to hear more, their lead singer (Ramesh Srivastava) has released some material as a solo artist, although to be honest I haven’t listened to any of it yet, so you’re on your own there.

Thanks again everyone for catching up with me, make sure you keep checking in to see what I’m talking about every week, and tell all your friends!  Just kidding, I know you’re not going to go tell your friends, so I won’t ask you to.  Have a brilliant rest of the week everyone.