Local Music - "Free Love" by Derek James

Genre: Rockabilly
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
Latest Album: Stray (2005)
Label: (unsigned)
Other Notable Songs: "Smoky Light" and "One More Day"

Fun Fact: Derek James has performed often at the venue Rockwood Music Hall for the past several years. His shows are known for being energetic, lively and Derek, himself, for being very personable and friendly.

Derek James Website HERE.

Acoustic - "Neon Bible" by Arcade Fire

Genre: Baroque Pop/Indie Rock
Hometown: Quebec, Canada
Latest Album: The Suburbs (2010)
Label: Merge Records
Other Notable Songs: "Rebellion (Lies)" and "Wake Up"

Fun Fact: In addition to instrument mainstays guitar, drums and bass guitar, members play piano, violin, viola, cello, double bass, xylophone, glockenspiel, keyboard, French horn, accordion, harp, mandolin and hurdy-gurdy. The band takes most of their instruments on tour, and the multi-instrumentalist band members switch instrumental duties throughout their shows.

The Arcade Fire Website HERE.

Cover - "Teardrop" by José González

Original: "Teardrop" by Massive Attack

Genre: Indie Folk
Hometown: Gothenberg, Sweden
Latest Album: In Our Nature (2007)
Label: Imperial Records
Other Notable Songs: "Down the Line" and "Hints"

Fun Fact: His version of The Knife's song "Heartbeats" has become a hit after having been in a commercial for Sony Bravia where 250 000 colorful bouncy balls are placed over the streets of San Francisco,

José González Website HERE.



The Original:

New Favorite - "Money Grabber" by Fitz & the Tantrums

Genre: Motown/Neo-Soul
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Latest Album: Pickin' Up The Pieces (2010)
Label: Dangerbird Records
Other Notable Tracks: "Breakin' the Chains of Love" and "Dear Mr. President"

Fun Fact: Adam Levine personally invited Fitz and the Tantrums to tour with Maroon 5 after hearing their music upon the recommendation on his tattoo artist.

Fitz and the Tantrums Website HERE.