Root Down in the Shadow

Today's post is the first READER EDITION 2012 Album of the year list! I may have started this blog to share my music finds, but it was never intended to be just my views. Anytime I catch up with a music friend, the first question is "Whatcha listening to these days?" Likewise, while putting together my year end lists, I asked a few of my music enthusiast friends to contribute their lists as well! The first post is from James Ferris, a Pittsbugrh local, college friend, and one of the few people I know with a music collection that puts mine to shame.  He likes The Weedrags, Leadbelly, and Kid Rock. READER EDITION 2012 Album of the year list - JAMES FERRIS EDITION! 1 – 3. The Weeknd , “ Trilogy” The Weeknd emerged into the world so fully realized, so self-aware, it’s hard to believe that Abel Tesfaye was only 21 when he simultaneously released three albums last year, each one a fully formed, unique piece of music. Tesfaye’s delicately balanced falsetto summon

Several weeks back, the current single for Jeannine Hebb , 'Call Him Out' was brought to my attention for a first listen.  The quirky throw back traditional song reminded me enough of Meaghan Smith 's The Cricket's Orchestra that I was going to dig deeper. Jeannine Hebb's 'Call Him Out' from Whileaway I picked up the album, Whileaway , on it's release date September 20th, 2011 and started to digest it.  'I Believe' immediately surprised me with an R&B type number that is perfectly sung and not too over powering like Alicia Keys.  I was already way off of expectations and Jeannine changed it up yet again with a Pop number ' Back to Me Again'.  It was a 180 degree turn from 'Call Him Out' with a shout out loud confident vocals reminiscent of a Katy Perry track. As I made it through Whileaway I was continually surprised with the impressive vocal range, especially 'Tell Me No' and 'Tragedy'.  Listening