Jazz Guitarists make the best Jam Band Guitarists

Well I figured I didn't want to be Mr. Negative Nancy when it comes to modern music so I have decided to share some of my recomendations for modern bands that you may or may not know about. I shall commence with one of my current favorite bands, Umphrey's McGee. Described as a Prog-Rock Jam Band, Umphrey's McGee has been "rockin out with their cocks out" since '02 with their first release "Local band Does OK". My favorite of their four studio albums out is Anchor Drops (left). Jake Cinninger puts together amazing licks that are hot enough to melt anyones face off. I highly recommend listening to this album first and all the way through.

Top Songs from the album: Walletsworth, Plunger, Ms. Tinkle's Overature, Wife Soup

In all fairness though none of their albums match up to their live shows. I have seen them live three times and I try to go every time they are in town. It is a relatively cheap show but it is worth every penny. Their repertoire of songs extends well beyond their studio work, so even if you are not a dedicated fan you will be able to enjoy their music. And if you go onto their website you can download the performance you attended or any of their live shows they have played.

All I Want To Do Is "Three Gunshots" To The Head

I'm sure many music listeners out there are familiar with some of the "musicians" in the pictures to the left. I just want to ask why American culture has continued to promote these names after years of aweful music. There is not an ounce of musical talent in any of these artists. Most of them do not write their own music and none of them could tell you what key the music was in. I do not understand why there are so many radiostations and television channels devoted to this crap. There are so many musical bands with talented musicians that had to work to get where they are and produce consistantly good music. We, as a culture, have become so blinded by good looks that it is affecting every aspect of art we produce. All I am saying is that there are better musicians out there that have not been recognized. My last example involves MTV ("music" television"). MTV is so out of touch with music they headlined Metallica and Kanye West at a Bonnaroo, a jam festival. The latter of which was booed off the stage. Please, Please, if you have any reason to think that I am wrong in what I am saying let me know, i welcome your opinions and beliefs.