It’s a simple idea, where I post songs that all have one thing in common – the letter that they begin with. Original? Not at all. Pointless? Probably.

Having said that though, every song is highly recommended and should be checked out by your good self immediately!

Brooklyn based rock outfit The Hold Steady continue to grow on me. This is the lead single off their latest release Stay Positive, and it’s fantastic.

It started when we were dancin’
It got heavy when we got to the bathroom.
We didn’t go back to her place,
We went to some place where she cat-sits.
She said, “I know I look tired, but everything’s fried, here in Memphis.”
Man, they want to know exactly which bathroom…
Dude, does it make any difference? It can’t be important…

Sequestered In Memphis – The Hold Steady

Saw Amos Lee on an episode of Live From Abbey Road last week. He was good, and seemed to be a very earnest man. I reckon he needs to lighten up a bit though, he was pretty serious. Smile Amos! Actually scratch that. I hate it when people tell me to smile. If I wanna be cranky, I will be, dammit! So on second thoughts, do what you like Amos. It makes no never mind to me.

Shout Out Loud – Amos Lee

I haven’t heard a lot from Swedish singer-songwriter Loney, Dear (Emil Svanängen) but I like the beguiling sweetness he conveys with his voice and a few simple chords. Lovely.

Sinister In A State Of Hope – Loney, Dear

Zookeeper is a six piece from Texas, USA and this track is about as infectious as you can get. Great piano and a fun beat. Love it.

Snow In Berlin – Zookeeper

It’s been a while since I posted a Van song. This one is a warmfuzzy and makes appearances on all kinds of soundtracks, including French Kiss and Bridget Jones’ Diary. I knew it before those movies though. Promise.

Someone Like You – Van Morrison Removed by request

A live track from the reggae/ska master.

Stir It Up – Bob Marley

Two Hours Traffic are a four piece indie rock band from Prince Edward Island, Canada. This track starts off pretty upbeat, but has a neat little breakdown in the middle that completely changes the feel of the whole thing.

Sure Can Start – Two Hours Traffic

I had things I had been meaning to say
But in the dazzling winter sunlight
I could feel them melt away
And through the warm radio static
I couldn’t hear my stage directions

I’ve had entire conversations like this, where I’m filled with things to say, yet end up saying nothing. Frustration and hopelessness in five short, perfect lines. Genius.

So Desperate – The Mountain Goats

Check out the rest of the alphabet here.

Image: Christine Olson