Albums to check out:

John Mayer-Battle Studies

"Who says I can't get stoned/Plan a trip to Japan alone/Doesn't matter if I even go/Who says I can't get stoned" He's probably means it as a metaphor, maybe. I like this album a lot, the main reason is that he goes back to his original acoustic sound. For you Taylor Swift fans out there, she actually sings background in one of the songs called, "Half Of My Heart".

Say Anything-Say Anything

It's Say Anything. Nuff said.

Fitz and The Tantrums-Songs For A Break-Up Vol. 1

Fitz and The Tantrums is currently the opening act of Maroon 5 during their nation wide college tour. How do I know this? Because I went to see Maroon 5 last night. This band is amazing live. They have a very classic soulful style, they're like The Temptations mix with a little James Brown.

Artist Focus: John Nolan

Today's Artist Focus is John Nolan. The lead singer/guitarist of Straylight Run and he also use to be co-vocalist/guitarist for Taking Back Sunday. I know, this dude is part of and has been a part of two awesome bands, which means naturally he would be just as awesome going solo with his new album called "Heights". The Cd just came out last month. What I always dug about John Nolan is his lyrics, "Well, they dragged me from the party, kicking and screaming, clawing at the carpet, chewing up the scenery, and talking to my friends with no regard for decency." This guy writes deep, I find all of his lyrics intriguing. You'll find his solo work has a little hint of Brand New-ish, which is no coincidence because on this album he worked with producer Mike Sapone (Taking Back Sunday, Straylight Run, Brand New). He is currently on tour with another band I like, Person L.

So check him out:

http://www.purevolume.com/JohnNolan

http://www.myspace.com/johnnolanmusic