John - It was recently brought to my attention that our younger employees had never heard of Chris Smither. When introduced to him through his great album, Leave the Light On, Ol’ Chris got some new, enthusiastic fans. Chris has many great albums full of killer playing and smart lyrics. This one just happens to be a favorite of mine.

Chris - Angine de Poitrine - Vols. I & II - Well, it seemed like only a matter of time before ONE of us recommended this band and it likely makes the most sense for it to be me. This duo of Québécois have been making waves from their viral KEXP performance thanks to the combination of their surreal, large-nosed paper mache mask-clad polka dot aesthetic with their multi-layered, microtonal instrumental math rock performances. While their absurdist attire adds to their performance substantially, these two EPs highlight that the costumes are but the cherry on top of music that is already exciting and full of odd yet compelling grooves. 

Mike - The Exciters - Tell Him - Hailing from Queens, The Exciters were arguably one of the most enjoyable bands of the girl group/rhythm and blues era.  Infectious almost to a fault, cut after cut on this LP is a stone cold winner, evoking a feeling of, “Haven’t I heard this before…”. You likely have, in fact, as the original recording of the ubiquitous “Do Wah Diddy” is here on display.  Other standout tracks include but are not limited to the title track itself, “Tell Him”, “Say it With Love”, and my personal favorite, “He’s Got the Power”.  Put on your dancing shoes and give this a spin.  No, really, I’ll wait here…