Hey again y’all. I thought before I head off for this weekend’s shows in Macon GA (Fri March 13 @ the Hummingbird) and Mobile AL (Sat March 14 @ the Crooked Martini) I would take a few minutes and tell you what I’ve been listening to lately. I’d love to hear from you as to what you think of these bands as well as what you’re listening to and think I might like as well.

Let me start with a few local bands that are rocking my socks off right now.

First, straight out of Birmingham Alabama, a band I’ve had the privilege of playing with a couple times recently: The Back Row Baptists www.myspace.com/chrisporterandthebackrowbaptists Singer/guitarist Chris Porter commands your attention with his hooky, old-timey melodies, and gruff, southern voice. Expertly backed by pianist/guitarist/singer Heath Green and drummer/guitarist/singer Sarah Green (no relation) as well as Steven Riley, Susan Nukols, and Adam Guthrie these guys remind you immediately of the Band with touches of Graham Parsons, Old Crow Medicine Show, and the Avett Brothers. Check them out!

Second, from Chattanooga TN: The Tennessee Rounders www.myspace.com/theroundersmusic
These guys aren’t around anymore, broke up just after I heard them, but if you like Honky Tonk, these boys are for you!

Finally from my home base here in Atlanta, the Goldest: www.TheGoldest.com

Was just turned on to this one by our friend and photographer, Bradley Occhipinti. These guys are really fresh, new, indie-pop, and they’re giving away their latest 2 EPs for FREE. Check them out!!!

Last but not least, have you guys heard the new album from former Soundgarden/Audioslave/Temple of the Dog frontman Chris Cornell? Let me state for the record that Cornell’s solo debut, “Euphoria Morning” is in my all time 5 favorite albums, although I wasn’t too pumped with his sophomore release, “Carry On” with it’s bizarre rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” and really a set of sub-par songs.
With this new CD, Cornell has really branched out. This is a collaboration between CC and Timbaland. The result is some interesting beat-thumping club tracks with a familiar favorite at the mic. I’m not sure that I’ll listen to this everyday, but I’m impressed that he branched out and tried something new. Admirable on it’s own, but some of these songs are really cool. You can stream the whole album for free at www.ChrisCornell.com

Well hope you’re all doing well and we see you really soon!
Connor Christian
CCSG