Listen and Learn

Regina Spektor is a new, fresh talent with a very special voice. She is probably a cross between Fiona Apple and Jewel, but definitely has her own style.

She comes out of New York with a punk sound of Acoustic/Alternative. Each of her songs are very different and have their own story. My favorite is the track “Fidelity”, which has a video out on VH1 that you can vote for on their countdown.

Regina’s latest album, Begin to Hope, can be bought on iTunes and other Internet music stores. She is up and coming so definitely look out for her.

Check out Regina Spektor’s MySpace to listen!: www.myspace.com/reginaspektor

Vedera comes out of Kansas City with a lead singer, Kristen May, that can belt with the best. She holds her notes but doesn’t boast too much to where it is annoying.

Chord magazine says, “She [May] is not only blessed with an enormous voice, but she clearly knows how to use it, crafting expectant verses and choruses that deliver in a big way. With so many generic male singers littering the landscape of indie rock right now, its refreshing to hear such a distinctive female voice.”

Although with a powerful singer comes with powerful musicians. Bassist Jason Douglas, guitarist Brian Little and drummer Drew Little back her.

Check out Vedera’s MySpace site to listen!: www.myspace.com/vedera

If you are a fan of the kookiness of Bjork, Imogen Heap is the artist for you. Even if you aren’t, you have to check this girl out!

Although electronic music is not really my thing, Imogen does it for me. She really knows how to keep her songs sounding different from each other, unlike most electronic artists. Her voice is truly captivating and I can’t think of another artist who sounds like her.

She comes out of London and is with the indie label Megaphonics. She is starting to gain a real audience in the United States. Her song “Hide and Seek” was on the finale of the television show “The O.C.”, which proved to give a major boost in the charts.

Like me, most people believe the electronic music scene is void of true musical talent. My views have changed drastically. If you are skeptical, you really need to give Imogen a listen.

Check out Imogen Heap’s tunes on MySpace!: www.myspace.com/imogenheap

Yes…the lead singer is female! Danelle Phillips, formerly of the Tulsa band Fridgebuzz, joined the remaining members of VASTU to form Congress of a Crow.

Danelle was more pop than rock before she got with the VASTU guys. She has an awesome voice that has a good range and is very distinct. She not only sings, but also plays the guitar and trumpet. The other band members include: Adam Tichenor, guitars; Wil Sutherland, guitars; Matt Mayo, bass; Nathan Lindley, drums.

Their sound is like Incubus with a touch of Fiona Apple. But I don’t want to put them into some sort of musical box. Their music is ever changing but always has that rock sense of style. They put on a great show and never let the intensity fall. Be sure to check them out live!

Check them out on MySpace!: www.myspace.com/congressofacrow