Mar 8th, 2010 · Singer and songwriter Mark Linkous, the creative force behind the band, Sparklehorse, took his own life Saturday in Knoxville, Tenn. He was 47 years old. Linkous' often-pretty melodies contrasted with sometimes dark lyrics. He deliberately distorted his vocal tracks in a way that made them sound both right in the listener's ear and as if they were coming from some faraway place.
Feb 23rd, 2010 · Cheery melodies, colorful lyrics and acoustic arrangements have earned the folk-rock band favorable comparisons to Modest Mouse and The Shins. Led by guitarist, pianist and singer Eric Johnson, Fruit Bats' members have developed a reputation for forward-thinking music.
Feb 23rd, 2010 · The one-man band's best song is also its most melodically complex: "You'll See It" is a layered blast of staccato synths, interwoven strings, strutting beats and intricate vocal harmonies. But in spite of its intricacies, Washed Out reveals an uncanny knack for writing melodies that stick. (That synthesizer riff in the chorus is particularly killer.)
Feb 18th, 2010 · An expert at blending musical genres, Citizen Cope (a.k.a. Clarence Greenwood) tells stories with music while incorporating hip-hop beats, quiet piano melodies, a hint of pop and more than a hint of blues. Hear Greenwood's brand of self-styled "urban poetry," live in concert from WXPN in Philadelphia.
Feb 4th, 2010 · It's a little hard to believe that a 37-year-old whose first public appearance came on Sesame Street when he was 4 finally released his debut album in 2009. Armed with well-crafted songs and strong melodies, Harper Simon brought his acoustic guitar to WFUV for a session.
Jan 30th, 2010 · The jazz composer and guitarist's specially-designed instrument allows him to play bass lines and guitar melodies at once. He talks about his unusual axe, his unusual recording process and his unusual new album title.
Jan 19th, 2010 · Beach House writes gauzy, dreamy songs with droning melodies, but the music is far from formless. Composing concise progressions and arrangements on which to build their sound, members Alex Scally and Victoria Legrand display an affection for intricate '60s-style songcraft and '80s-style synth-pop. Hear the Baltimore duo's new album, Teen Dream, a week before its release on Jan. 26.
Jan 5th, 2010 · Mexican-American musician Lhasa de Sela died New Years Day at the age of 37 after a battle with breast cancer. She was known for creating music that was infused with an appreciation of various genres, including Mexican and gypsy folk melodies.