One Republic - Dreaming Out Loud - Album Review

Dreaming Out Loud is One Republic's latest album. You know, the band who's song "Apologize" rose to the top of radio play lists and charts all over the world, without the support of an album? Very impressive exploit, I must say. But if you base your judgment of their album on that one song, you would be dead wrong. This band has been influenced by many different genres of music, and it shows in this very well produced and diverse album. Bending and twisting the line between rock, pop, r&b and alternative, Dreaming Out Loud is a consisten, fluid, tight album that is worth listening to from top to bottom.

Lead vocalist Ryan Tedder is not only a talented singer, he is also a producer and a song writer. He has produced tracks for Jennifer Lopez and Blake Lewis, as well as co-written material for Natasha Bedingfield, Hillary Duff and Blake Lewis. His crisp, plaintive vocals are reminiscent of The Fray and Coldplay. And the band backing him up is nothing short of spectacular.

One Republic is also a great live band. Tedder's vocals have a very good quality in a live setting, and the band sound is just really awesome. One could be worried that some of the more produced songs would not go over well in a live setting... For having seen them play in a very intimate setting (150 people at most), believe me when I say - their songs are fantastic live.






1. Say (All I Need)
Right from the get go, the epic-like Say (All I Need) grabs you and makes you take notice. This very well produced song just soars higher and higher as it goes. Tedder's falsetto is impressive, giving a deeper meaning to the already beautiful lyrics.

Well, bless my soul
You're a lonely soul
Cause you won't let go
Of anything you hold

Well, all I need
Is the air I breathe
And a place to rest
My head


2. Mercy
Soaring and addictive chorus. Very reminiscent of Coldplay, but with a refreshing twist to it. I love the guitar work, the passionate vocals, the intricate lyrics.

Angel of Mercy
How did you find me?
How did you pick me up again?
Angel of Mercy
How did you move me?
Why am I on my feet again?
And I see you

Whoa Whoa Whoa
I feel you
Whoa Whoa Whoa


3. Stop And Stare
One Republic's second single, this song sets itself apart with its lyrics. Catchy chorus, believable and emotional vocals. The guitar work and the bass are exceptional on this.

Stop and stare
I think I'm moving but I go nowhere
Yeah I know that everyone gets scared
But I've become what I can't be, oh
Stop and stare
You start to wonder why you're 'here' not there
And you'd give anything to get what's fair
But fair ain't what you really need
Oh, can u see what I see


4. Apologize
Is it even necessary to say anything about this song? Addictive beats, catchy lyrics, amazing production. The album version features more cello, which ties in nicely with the beautiful vocals and artful lyrics.

I'm hangin' on your rope,
Got me ten feet off the ground.
And I'm hearin' what you say,
But I just can't make a sound.
You tell me that you need me,
Then you go and cut me down...
But wait...
You tell me that you're sorry,
Didn't think I'd turn around...
And say...

That it's too late to apologize.
It's too late...


5. Goodbye, Apathy
The piano is put to the foreground in this song, without stealing the spotlight. The layering of the vocals on the chorus brings so much more meaning to the words... Beautiful.

So don't sit still, don't you move away from here
So goodbye apathy (as I'm trying), so long fancy free
(just to keep things right)
Goodbye apathy, (kill myself to make everything perfect for ya)
I don't wanna be you


6. All Fall Down
The cello line is brilliant. It adds a touch of drama to the song. Despite a slow tempo, this is a very uplifting song.

Lost til you're found
Swim til you drown

Know that we all fall down
Love til you hate
Jump til you break
Know that we all fall down


7. Tyrant
The verses are a bit weird, but the chorus and the bridge are amazing. The bridge is so different than the rest of the song, it reminds me of those big anthem like songs from the 60's and 70's.

Feel capable of most anything this crippled bears gonna sing gonna bring you all the years is quick turn around look your shadows could could not beautiful lies for you is what they do ..

And it feels so real from the outside looking in
And it feels so real from the outside
From the outtttt
From the outtt tyrant
Tyrant tyranttt


8. Prodigal
Very slow at first, the song picks up after the second verse. After a short bridge, the guitars and drums just explode and takes this song to the next level. The lyrics are touching, and Tedder's vocals are simply beautifully emotional on this. IT has a strange "live" feel that I love.

And I take everything from you
But you'll take anything
Won't you?

Run away, run away
Like a prodigal
Don't you wait for me
Don't you wait for me
So ashamed, so ashamed
But I need you so
And you wait for me
And you wait for me


9. Won't Stop
Nice change of pace. The drums and the guitars are light, encouraging, hopeful, uplifting. The cello makes it all even more comfortable. The vocals are not as plaintive as in the other songs, but they are beautiful just the same. I could see this song being used for a movie.

Now you were fine by night
But when the morning light comes
Comfortable as rain on Sunday
And I'm a lucky soul
That holds your hand so tight
Hope you hear this one day
Don't fool yourself
This is my truth


10. All We Are
The lyrics of this song are unbelievable, touching and moving. I love Tedder's vocals, so passionate and full of tangible emotions. The chorus is so damn catchy, it makes me want to sing at the top of my lungs. Everyone can relate to the feelings explored in this song.. Beautifully done.

Every single day that I can breathe, you changed my philosophy
I'm never gonna let you pass me by

So don't say your goodbyes you know its better that way
We won't break, we won't die
It's just a moment of change
All we are, all we are, is everything that's right
All we need, all we need, our love is at a bind


11. Someone To Save You
Starts big and stays big throughout. The chorus is catchy, great sing along song.

Honesty
Is what you need
It sets you free
Like someone to save you
Let it go
But hurry now
Theres undertow
And I don't want to lose you now


12. Come Home
About someone who got sent to Iraq shortly after getting engaged, this song is very personal. Despite the sad content, the song is beautiful. Tedder's vocals shine really bright, accompanied only by a piano and a cello. Chills inducing. Even more so in a live setting.

Come home
Come home
Cause I've been waiting for ya
For so long
For so long
And right now there's a war between the vanities
But all i see is you and me
The fight for you is all I've ever known
So come home


13. Apologize (with Timbaland)

The itunes album also contains three videos:

1. Apologize
2. Stop and Stare (I love to watch this one for the drummer - he sings to himself while drumming, it's beautiful to see!)
3. All Fall Down

Rockbandlounge.com - Rock Star: AllStar - Final 3

There is this website I have been frequenting for more than 2 years. It's called RockBandLounge (RBL). The site is dedicated to the promotion of singers and bands. Before the RockStar serie, the site promoted mostly indie bands. With RockStar:INXS and RockStar:Supernova, the website attracted a lot of new music lovers. The message boards there are very much alive, and a healthy community of fans of music has been gathering there, discussing music, promoting music, and mostly, having fun!

Before Christmas, there was this game that got started. It was called RockStar:AllStar. Basically, members of RBL have wanted to have a third season of RockStar. To help motivate the troops to send in letters to CBS to show them how much we love the show and how great it would be to have it back on air, RBL has created that RockStar:AllStar game.

It started out with 15 rockers, chosen from both season of RockStar. Performance clips were posted, watched, dissected and discussed, and voted on. Each week, rockers were eliminated. And now, we are down to the final 3.

Marty Casey



Lead singer for the band Lovehammers, Marty was the runner-up in Season 1. With electrifying and intense performances such as "Creep", "Wish You Were Here" and "Trees", Marty was the clear fan favorite.

JD Fortune



Winner of RockStar Season 1 and lead singer for the super band INXS, JD always produces passionate, visceral and sexy performances. He put his spin on songs such as "Hand In My Pocket", "California Dreaming" and "Come As You Are" and always deliver stellar vocals.

Toby Rand



Toby was the runner-up for RockStar:Supernova. This fun, high energy charismatic artist is the lead singer for the australian band Juke Kartel. Toby was the clear fan favorite during his season as well, producing great performances such as "Somebody Told Me", "Throw It All Away" and "Knocking on Heaven's Door".

I'm not going to hide it - my favorite is JD Fortune. JD has proven on the show that he can rearrange songs in a brilliant way. He's proven that he's a true rockstar, that he has the goods to lead an extremely talented band such as INXS. He co-wrote 3 songs for their album Switch. Since being on the show, JD has grown as a performer, and has won over thousands of fans all over the world. After touring for close to 2 years, INXS has decided to take a well deserved break. Meanwhile, JD is working on a solo project that should see the light of day very soon.

But now, JD needs your help. In order for him to advance to the finals, he needs YOU, yes YOU! to vote for him this coming Sunday, starting at midnight. Only the top 2 with the most votes will advance to the finals! JD has some tough competition, so every vote counts!

How you ask???

Head on over to Rockbandlounge and register today! Check out the forums and the discussion thread, watch the clips posted for each rocker, and then come back on Sunday to vote for JD!

Do it today! JD needs you!

Tour dates madness

So I decided to check out who from my MySpace Top 40 is currently touring and/or playing shows.



Jim McGorman



http://www.myspace.com/aboutjamestown

Jim, who is currently Avril Lavigne's Musical Director, will be touring with Avril and the band for a good portion of 2008. He'll be all over the world, with stops in the USA, Canada and Europe. Starting in March, the tour extends to July and currently has more than 60 dates... so to check out if Avril and Jim will stop in a city near you, head out to Avril's Myspace Page and check the calendar!!!


Lukas Rossi



http://www.myspace.com/lukasrossitv

Lukas is playing a small canadian tour, mostly concentrated in Ontario.

31 Jan 2008 Park Theatre Winnipeg, Manitoba
1 Feb 2008 Park Theatre Winnipeg, Manitoba
2 Feb 2008 Jack’s Thunder Bay, Ontario
5 Feb 2008 Coulson Nightclub Sudbury, Ontario
6 Feb 2008 The Foundation Nightclub Barrie, Ontario
7 Feb 2008 Horseshoe Tavern Toronto, Ontario
8 Feb 2008 The Roxy Windsor, Ontario
9 Feb 2008 The Dungeon Oshawa, Ontario
11 Feb 2008 The Observatory @ Algonquin College Ottawa, Ontario


Greg Neufeld

http://www.myspace.com/dimarcomusic



Greg will be touring with Lukas Rossi for his canadian tour (see above and HERE). Additionally, Greg will play a few dates in British Columbia.

9 Mar 2008 The Roxy Vancouver, British Columbia
10 Apr 2008 Clarke Theater Mission, British Columbia (with Carly Ray Jepsen).

And watch for new music soon up on http://www.myspace.com/gregneufeldmusic!


Chris Richardson

http://www.myspace.com/chrisrichardson



Chris will be going to a few cities across the USA with Melinda Doolittle as part of the Dreyer's Idol Ice Cream Tour. Go out and see him!

2/26 San Diego
3/4 Houston
3/11 Denver
3/18 Seattle
3/25 Tampa
4/1 Charlotte
4/8 Virginia Beach/Norfolk
4/15 Hartford
4/22 Cleveland
4/29 Milwaukee


Jason Mraz

http://www.myspace.com/jasonmraz



Australia! Get ready for Mr A to Z! Jason will be doing a few shows down under. So get out and go see him!

15 Mar 2008 West Coast Blues & Roots Festival Fremantle, Australia
18 Mar 2008 Prince of Wales Melbourne, Australia
20 Mar 2008 The Tivoli Brisbane, Australia
21 Mar 2008 Bluesfest Byron Bay Byron Bay, Australia
22 Mar 2008 Bluesfest Byron Bay Byron Baty, Australia
23 Mar 2008 Point Nepean Music Festival Point Nepean, Australia
25 Mar 2008 The Metro Sydney, Australia

On Tuesday, February 13th, "Selections For Friends," the live album recorded during the Songs For Friends Tour will be released on the iTunes US Store with "The Beauty In Ugly" as a bonus track. Support good music and buy!


Daughtry

http://www.myspace.com/daughtry



Daughtry is busy, busy, busy!!! The band is opening for Bon Jovi in 2008. It promises to be a rocking show!

Jan 31 2008 PBS Soundstage PBS Soundstage
Feb 18 2008 Omaha, NE Qwest Center
Feb 20 2008 DETROIT, MI Palace of Auburn Hills
Feb 21 2008 Milwaukee, WI Bradley Center
Feb 23 2008 CHICAGO, IL United Center
Feb 24 2008 CHICAGO, IL United Center
Feb 26 2008 Chicago, IL United Center
Feb 28 2008 Washington, DC Verizon Center
Feb 26 2008 Chicago, IL United Center
Feb 28 2008 Washington, DC Verizon Center
Mar 2 2008 Philadelphia, PA Wachovia Center
Mar 3 2008 Philadelphia, PA Wachovia Center
Mar 7 2008 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Arena
Mar 8 2008 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Arena
Mar 10 2008 Toronto, CA AIR Canada Centre
Mar 12 2008 Toronto, CA AIR Canada Centre
Mar 15 2008 Pittsburgh, PA Mellon Arena
Mar 16 2008 Greensboro, NC Greensboro Coliseum
Mar 18 2008 St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center
Mar 19 2008 St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center
Mar 31 2008 Denver, CO Pepsi Center
Apr 2 2008 San Jose, CA HP Pavilion
Apr 4 2008 Anaheim, CA Honda Center
Apr 5 2008 Anaheim, CA Honda Center
Apr 8 2008 San Jose, CA HP Pavilion
Apr 9 2008 Los Angeles, CA Staples Center
Apr 11 2008 Glendale, AZ Jobing.com Arena
Apr 12 2008 Las Vegas, NV MGM Garden Arena
Apr 14 2008 Dallas, TX American Airlines Center
Apr 15 2008 Oklahoma City, OK Ford Center
Apr 17 2008 Kansas City Sprint Center
Apr 19 2008 Fargo, ND Fargodome
Apr 20 2008 Des Moines, IA Wells Fargo Arena
Apr 22 2008 Kansas City Sprint Center
Apr 24 2008 Nashville, TN Sommet Center
Apr 26 2008 FT LAUDERDALE, FL BankAtlantic Center
Apr 27 2008 Tampa, FL St Pete Times Forum
Apr 30 2008 Atlanta, GA Philips Arena


Bo Bice

http://www.myspace.com/bobice



So Bo is playing a few shows in the USA. Go out and see him! I would if I could...

March 06, 2008 Ameristar Casino - Bottleneck Blues Bar St. Charles, MO
March 16, 2008 Columbia County Amphitheater Evans, GA
April 03, 2008 B.B. King's Blues Club New York, NY
April 04, 2008 House of Blues Atlantic City, NJ
April 05, 2008 Sherman Theater Stroudsburg, PA


One Republic

http://www.myspace.com/onerepublic



One Republic is going out on the road to support their album, Dreaming Out Loud! I've had the chance to see them live in a small intimate venue, and they are simply fantastic...

23 Jan 2008 - Meridian Houston, Texas
24 Jan 2008 - The Tabernacle Atlanta, Georgia
28 Jan 2008 - Revolution Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
29 Jan 2008 - State Theatre St. Petersburg, Florida
31 Jan 2008 - Ram’s Head Live Baltimore, Maryland
1 Feb 2008 - Paradise Boston, Massachusetts - SOLD OUT!!!
2 Feb 2008 - Trocadero Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
6 Feb 2008 - Mod Club Toronto
17 Feb 2008 - House of Blues Dallas, Texas
28 Mar 2008 - Burswood w/ Maroon 5 Perth, Western Australia
30 Mar 2008 - Rod Laver Arena w/ Maroon 5 Melbourne, Victoria
31 Mar 2008 - Entertainment Center w/ Maroon 5 Adelaide, South Australia
2 Apr 2008 - Entertainment Center Brisbane, Queensland
4 Apr 2008 - Acer Arena w/ Maroon 5 Sydney, New South Wales
6 Apr 2008 - Vector Arena w/ Maroon 5 Auckland, Auckland


Kate Voegele

http://www.myspace.com/katevoegele



Did you know Jim McGorman wrote songs for Kate, including "It's Only Life"?

22 Jan 2008 The Rock Boat Miami, Florida
23 Jan 2008 The Rock Boat Miami, Florida
9 Feb 2008 Randy Bacon Gallery Springfield, Missouri
10 Feb 2008 Schubas Chicago, Illinois
11 Feb 2008 Blind Pig Ann Arbor, Michigan
12 Feb 2008 The Intersection Grand Rapids, Michigan
13 Feb 2008 Mac’s Bar Lansing, Michigan
15 Feb 2008 Stratus Nightclub Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
16 Feb 2008 Frankies Toledo, Ohio
17 Feb 2008 The Balcony Oxford, Ohio
19 Feb 2008 House of Blues- Cambridge Room Cleveland, Ohio
21 Feb 2008 Webster Underground Hartford, Connecticut
22 Feb 2008 Civic League Auditorium Framingham, Massachusetts
23 Feb 2008 Wheel House Narragansett, Rhode Island
25 Feb 2008 Knitting Factory New York, New York
26 Feb 2008 World Cafe Live Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
28 Feb 2008 The Haunt Ithaca, New York
29 Feb 2008 Santa Fe Cafe Main Stage College Park, Maryland
2 Mar 2008 Jammin’ Java Vienna, Virginia


Matt Nathanson

http://www.myspace.com/mattnathanson



Did you know that Jim McGorman collaborated with Matt Nathanson in 2006 on his album "Some Mad Hope"? And that he sng background vocals on "Crash"? Yep! :)

25 Jan 2008 Jack Rabbits Jacksonville, Florida
26 Jan 2008 Park Ave Cds Orlando, Florida
26 Jan 2008 The Social Orlando, Florida
27 Jan 2008 Workplay Theatre BIrmingham, Alabama
28 Jan 2008 40 Watt Club Athens, Georgia
29 Jan 2008 The Handlebar Greenville, South Carolina
31 Jan 2008 Recher Theatre Towson, Maryland
1 Feb 2008 Toad’s Place New Haven, Connecticut
4 Feb 2008 The State Theatre State College, Pennsylvania
5 Feb 2008 St. Andrew’s Hall Detroit, Michigan
7 Feb 2008 Knickerbockers Lincoln, Nebraska
9 Feb 2008 The Fox Theatre Boulder, Colorado
24 Feb 2008 The Big Easy Spokane, Washington
25 Feb 2008 Showbox Sodo Seattle, Washington
26 Feb 2008 The Roseland Theatre Portland, Oregon
2 Mar 2008 The Paramount theatre Denver, Colorado
3 Mar 2008 The Depot Salt Lake City, Utah
5 Mar 2008 The Warfield San Francisco, California
7 Mar 2008 The Wiltern Los Angeles, California
11 Mar 2008 House of Blues Dallas, Texas
12 Mar 2008 The Beaumont Kansas City, Missouri
13 Mar 2008 Pop’s East St Louis, Illinois
14 Mar 2008 Val Air Ball Room West Des Moines, Iowa
15 Mar 2008 The Culture Room Fort Lauderdale, Florida
16 Mar 2008 First Avenue Minneapolis, Minnesota
20 Mar 2008 The Intersection Grand Rapids, Michigan
21 Mar 2008 Clutch Cargo’s Detroit, Michigan
25 Mar 2008 Club Soda Montreal, Quebec
4 Apr 2008 9:30 Club Washington DC, Washington DC
5 Apr 2008 Manhattanville College Purchase, New York
8 Apr 2008 Amos’ Southend Charlotte, North Carolina
10 Apr 2008 The Orange Peel Asheville, North Carolina
11 Apr 2008 Valarium Knoxville, Tennessee
12 Apr 2008 Tabernacle Atlanta, Georgia
14 Apr 2008 Freebird Live Jacksonville Beach, Florida


Less Than Jake

http://www.myspace.com/lessthanjake



9 Feb 2008 Jorgenson Theater - University of Connecticut Storrs, Connecticut

Not a lot of action in the LTJ camp... Still, if you are near the venue, go out and see them! They are an awesome live band!!!


Doxology

http://www.myspace.com/dxband



26 Jan 2008 Jazzbones - Benefit Concert for Baby Frankie Tacoma, Washington

I never had the chance to see them live... But their album kick ass! So I bet they are great live, too...


The Dunes

http://www.myspace.com/thedunesrock



I promised a friend I'd go see them this year... I really want to! My friend says they are a great live band, so check them out if you are in The Big Smoke...

2 Mar 2008 TBA (Private Showcase) TORONTO, Ontario
8 Mar 2008 TBA Canadian Music Week Toronto


The Smashing Pumpkins

http://www.myspace.com/smashingpumpkins



If you are in Europe, you can catch a show from the Pumpkins!


27 Jan 2008 Arena Belgrade
29 Jan 2008 Arena Budapest
30 Jan 2008 T-Mobile Arena Prague
31 Jan 2008 Stadthalle Vienna
2 Feb 2008 Forum Milan
3 Feb 2008 Pala Malaguti Bologna
5 Feb 2008 Hallenstadion Zurich
6 Feb 2008 Bercy Paris
9 Feb 2008 Royal Dublin Society Dublin
10 Feb 2008 Kings Hall Belfast
12 Feb 2008 SECC Hall Glasgow
14 Feb 2008 Nottingham Arena Nottingham
15 Feb 2008 MEN Arena Manchester
16 Feb 2008 O2 Arena London
18 Feb 2008 Brabenthalle Den Bosch
19 Feb 2008 Forest National Brussels
21 Feb 2008 Olympiahalle Munich
22 Feb 2008 Jahrhunderthalle Frankfurt
23 Feb 2008 Arena Berlin
24 Feb 2008 Koenig-Pilsener Arena Oberhausen
26 Feb 2008 Colorline Arena Hamburg
27 Feb 2008 Valbyhallen Copenhagen
29 Feb 2008 Spektrum Oslo
1 Mar 2008 Hovet Stockholm
3 Mar 2008 Ice Hall Helsinki


Lifehouse

http://www.myspace.com/lifehouse



The guys are busy playing all over the USA, with two quick stops in Canada (Montreal and Toronto).

9 Feb 2008 NFL Pro Bowl Block Party Hawaii, Hawaii
10 Feb 2008 NFL Pro Bowl Halftime Show/Aloha Stadium Hawaii, Hawaii
15 Feb 2008 The Tonight Show Burbank, California
24 Feb 2008 The Big Easy Spokane, Washington
25 Feb 2008 Showbox SoDo Seattle, Washington
26 Feb 2008 Roseland Theatre Portland, Oregon
2 Mar 2008 Paramount Theatre Denver, Colorado
3 Mar 2008 The Depot Salt Lake City, Utah
5 Mar 2008 Warfield Theatre San Francisco, California
7 Mar 2008 The Wiltern Los Angeles, California
11 Mar 2008 House of Blues Dallas, Texas
12 Mar 2008 Beaumont Club Kansas City, Missouri
13 Mar 2008 Pop’s East Saint Louis, Illinois
14 Mar 2008 Val Air Ballroom West Des Moines, Iowa
16 Mar 2008 First Avenue Minneapolis, Minnesota
17 Mar 2008 House Of Blues Chicago, Illinois
20 Mar 2008 The Intersection Grand Rapids, Michigan
21 Mar 2008 Clutch Cargo’s Pontiac, Michigan
22 Mar 2008 The Eagles Club Milwaukee, Wisconsin
24 Mar 2008 Danforth Music Hall Toronto
25 Mar 2008 Club Soda Montreal, Quebec
27 Mar 2008 Webster Theater Hartford, Connecticut
28 Mar 2008 Orpheum Theatre Boston, Massachusetts
29 Mar 2008 Long Center Scranton, Pennsylvania
30 Mar 2008 Crocodile Rock Cafe Allentown, Pennsylvania
1 Apr 2008 Roseland Ballroom New York, New York
3 Apr 2008 Electric Factory Ballroom Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
4 Apr 2008 Club Washington, D.C., Washington DC
7 Apr 2008 The National Richmond, Virginia
8 Apr 2008 Amos’ Southend Charlotte, North Carolina
10 Apr 2008 The Orange Peel Asheville, North Carolina
11 Apr 2008 Valarium Knoxville, Tennessee
12 Apr 2008 The Tabernacle Atlanta, Georgia
14 Apr 2008 Freebird Live Jacksonville Beach, Florida
15 Apr 2008 Culture Room Fort Lauderdale, Florida
16 Apr 2008 Hard Rock Live Orlando, Florida


Matchbox 20

http://www.myspace.com/matchboxtwenty



Matchbox 20 is back! And they are going out on the road in support of their new album, Exile on Mainstream.

25 Jan 2008 Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood, Florida
26 Jan 2008 St. Pete Times Forum Tampa, Florida
28 Jan 2008 Philips Arena Atlanta, Georgia
29 Jan 2008 Cricket Arena Charlotte, North Carolina
1 Feb 2008 Sears Centre Chicago, Illinois
2 Feb 2008 Palace of Auburn Hills Detroit, Michigan
4 Feb 2008 Xcel Energy Center S. Paul, Minnesota
5 Feb 2008 Bradley Center Milwaukee, Wisconsin
7 Feb 2008 Quicken Loans Arena Cleveland, Ohio
8 Feb 2008 Patriot Center Fairfax, Virginia
12 Feb 2008 Turning Stone Resort & Casino Verona, New York
14 Feb 2008 Madison Square Garden New York, New York
15 Feb 2008 The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa Event Center Atlantic City, New Jersey
16 Feb 2008 Seneca Niagara Casino Theatre Niagara Falls, New York
18 Feb 2008 Mohegan Sun Arena Uncasville, Connecticut
19 Feb 2008 Sovereign Center Reading, Pennsylvania
21 Feb 2008 Times Union Center Albany, New York
22 Feb 2008 Air Canada Centre Toronto
25 Feb 2008 Sprint Center Kansas City, Missouri
26 Feb 2008 Qwest Center Omaha, Nebraska
28 Feb 2008 Toyota Center Houston, Texas
29 Feb 2008 Nokia Theatre Dallas, Texas
2 Mar 2008 Ford Center Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
4 Mar 2008 World Arena Colorado Springs, Colorado
5 Mar 2008 Broomfield Events Center Denver, Colorado
6 Mar 2008 E Center Salt Lake City, Utah
8 Mar 2008 Key Arena Seattle, Washington
9 Mar 2008 General Motors Place Vancouver, British Columbia
12 Mar 2008 HP Pavilion San Jose, California
14 Mar 2008 Reno Events Center Reno, Nevada
16 Mar 2008 Staples Center Arena Los Angeles, California
17 Mar 2008 Cricket Pavilion Phoenix, Arizona
18 Mar 2008 The Pearl Concert Theater Las Vegas, Nevada

One Republic - Dreaming Out Loud Tour Dates

In support of their album, Dreaming Out Loud, One Republic is going on the road!

Go see them live! They are great. I did a few months ago, on a very small, intimate stage, and it was awesome! Surreal! You can read about it HERE.



23 Jan 2008 - Meridian Houston, Texas
24 Jan 2008 - The Tabernacle Atlanta, Georgia
28 Jan 2008 - Revolution Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
29 Jan 2008 - State Theatre St. Petersburg, Florida
31 Jan 2008 - Ram’s Head Live Baltimore, Maryland
1 Feb 2008 - Paradise Boston, Massachusetts - SOLD OUT!!!
2 Feb 2008 - Trocadero Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
6 Feb 2008 - Mod Club Toronto
17 Feb 2008 - House of Blues Dallas, Texas
28 Mar 2008 - Burswood w/ Maroon 5 Perth, Western Australia
30 Mar 2008 - Rod Laver Arena w/ Maroon 5 Melbourne, Victoria
31 Mar 2008 - Entertainment Center w/ Maroon 5 Adelaide, South Australia
2 Apr 2008 - Entertainment Center Brisbane, Queensland
4 Apr 2008 - Acer Arena w/ Maroon 5 Sydney, New South Wales
6 Apr 2008 - Vector Arena w/ Maroon 5 Auckland, Auckland


You can join their mailing list and get update on the band, tour, promo, etc by visiting their website:

http://www.onerepublic.net/

Blake Lewis on Z100 New York

From the Z100 site:

American Idol Season 6 runner-up Blake Lewis stopped by Z100 to talk to American Idol Diva Shelley Wade. Watch as Blake tells Shelley about his new single "Break Anotha", new album "AudioDayDream", beatboxes for Shelley and gives his opinion on Britney Spears!

Visit their website and check out the videos! They are great!

http://zzone.z100.com/shelley/blog/2008/01/15/blake_lewis_interview

Blake Lewis - Mike & Juliet Show - Jan 18 07

Lukas Rossi with Greg Neufeld - Ontario Tour

Lukas Rossi, with Greg Neufeld opening, is coming back to Ontario, with two stops in Winnipeg first!

Jan 31: Park Theatre - Winnipeg, MB
Feb 1: Park Theatre - Winnipeg, MB
Feb 2: Kilroy's - Thunder Bay, ON
Feb 5: Coulson Nightclub, Sudbury, ON
Feb 6: Foundation Nightclub, Barrie, ON
Feb 7: Horseshoe Tavern, Toronto, ON
Feb 8: The Roxy, Windsor, ON
Feb 9: The Dungeon, Oshawa, ON
Feb 11: The Observatory @ Algonquin College, Ottawa, ON





You can visit http://www.lukasrossionline.com/ for more info!

Some Greg Neufeld News - Debut Album

I think we will finally get some new music from Greg very, very soon!


From Greg Neufeld:

Hey Everyone!!!!

Its Greg Neufeld here just giving everone an update of whats going on!!! I am in the process of recording my debut album with highly acclaimed producer Ryan Mcallister. The songs that I am recording have been a colaberation with a few people, I was contacted by huge song writer Amy Foster (Micheal Buble, Josh Groban) to fly down to Nashville and write some songs with her! The trip was a huge success and the songs will be on the new album!!! I have also done some co writes with Ryan Mcallister (lead singer Dakona) And then some of my own songs. Coming soon is the greatest website of all time www.gregneufeldmusic.com and very soon to preview the new songs you can go to www.myspace.com/gregneufeldmusic I would love to hear back from you guys!!!!

Greg Neufeld

If you have not done so, go read my review of the Berkeley Church Show and check out some really nice pictures!

Guest Columnist Ashley Clark Sounds Off on His Next Great American Band Win

Guest Columnist Ashley Clark Sounds Off on His Next Great American Band Win


When we made the finals of The Next Great American Band, I was in shock, because our goal was to make the top five. When we made the top four, I was like, "No way!" Then we made the top three and we were like, "It can't get any better than this."

But to win... I just can't believe it! All I remember is my legs giving out when they said, "The Clark Brothers." All of the stress and the months away from home and the work just hit me at once and I fell down, you know?


Read the rest here:


http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/tvguide/344618_tvgif22.html

American Idol Season 7 - Dallas Auditions

Dallas was entertaining, for sure.... Simon was very nice this episode, saying "I like him/her" about many contestants.


The Good


Jessica Brown, 24 Longview, TX



Jessica sang “I’ll Stand By You” by the Pretenders.


Alaina Whitiker, 16 Tulsa, OK



Simon thinks she's nothing special, but still , she goes through... She sang “Stronger” by Faith Hill.


Pia Easley 24 Chicago, IL



Singing “I’ve Got to Use My Imagination” by Gladys Knight, Pia impresses. Background singer by profession, she certainly is full of confidence and seem ready to step to the front. Very good voice, nice unique look.


Kady Malloy, 18 Houston, TX



Kady does impersonations. When Simon asks her to hear "her", she launches into a beautiful, controlled version of “Unchained Melody” by the Righteous Brothers. She's through, without hesitation.


Kyle Ensley, 21



Kyle sings “Somebody to Love” by Queen. I really didn't expect this political science student to be as good as he was... Nice surprise.


Colton Swon, 18 Muskogee, OK



Guitar player, drummer, you name it. He's good. He sang “Boondocks” by Little Big Town.



Drew Poppelreiter, 24 Saltillo, MS



Nice voice... Very nice. He sang “Check Yes or No” by George Strait.






The Ugh??


Bruce Dickson 19 Backstrop TX



The guy talks about how he's never kissed a girl, how he's saving himself for the right woman. It's a bit weird, honestly. He sings, “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers, and while he flubs the phrasing, he's got a decent voice... Yet, he doesn't go through.


Brandon Greene, 21, Lucedale MS



Despite a good audition and a good voice and being put through, I hd to put this guy in the UGH? category. The guy has a collection of... clipped nails. Oooooooooookaaaaaaaaaaaayyyy... He sang Rich Girl” by Hall and Oats.


Kayla Hatfield, 24 Campbell TX



Kayla survived a terrible accident that left her blind in one eye. She is so happy, so grateful, has such an infectious attitude... Despite an average voice, she's through... Simon wishes he could be her for an hour or two everyday. He LIKES her. She sang “Piece of my Heart” by Janis Joplin.


Nina Shaw 24 Burleson TX



Nina sang “Run to You” by Whitney Houston. There is no doubt in my mind that she got through because of her looks and because she hails from the same town as Kelly Clarkson. Not really deserving, IMO.


Renaldo Lupez, 44 Reno, NV



Singing his own song, Renaldo doesn't go through but manages to make Randy, Ryan and Paula dance and make Simon laugh hysterically. VERY entertaining... "You are my brother, my best friend forever..."



The Bad


Paul Stafford, 25 Crosby TX - “Wait For You” by Elliott Yamin



Paul has a very endearing personality. Unfortunately, he cannot sing...



Douglas Davidson, 28 Austin TX



Oh. My. Dear. Lord. “Living on a Prayer” By Bon Jovi


Tammy Tuzinski, 24, Grapevine TX



While she sang “If You Ask Me To” by Celine Dion, I think I fell asleep she was so monotone.


Kyle Reinneck 20 Edwardsville, Ill



His over the top, fake rocker attitude just doesn't work. He sang Kelly Clarkson “Never Again”.

Blake Lewis - Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson - Jan 15th 08

American Idol Season 7 - Philadelphia Auditions

The Competition is Back On!

Thousands and thousands of hopeful are auditioning for this season's American Idol. Many were mediocre, many were passable, many were laughable. But did we see any potential last night in Philadelphia?



The Good


Joey Catalano, 19, Mays Landing, NJ



Joey's auditioned last year, and since then, he's lost 200+ pounds. He sings "Sunday Morning" from Maroon 5. He sounds good, nice falsetto.


Melanie Nyema, 26, Los Angeles, CA



Backup singer for Taylor Hicks, Melanie sings “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield. She seems to have a good voice, and a really nice personality, but she seemed to hold back a lot on us...


Jenot Joyner, 25 Bowie, NJ



Jenot sang “I Guess that’s Why They Call it the Blues” by Elton John. He showed off a nice soulful voice.


Jose Candelera, 23, Bayonne, NJ



Singing in Spanish, Jose showed off his voice, and it was nice!


Angela Martin, 26 Chicago, IL



Her backstory definitely touches the heart. She has a handicapped daughter, and her family supports her and helps take care of the child. She sings “Signed Sealed Delivered” by Stevie Wonder. She needs to be more confident! She's pretty, has a good voice, and seems to have a nice personality.


Kristy Lee Cook, 23, Selma OR



She sold her horse to come to the auditions. She sings “Amazing Grace” and does very well. Simon practically drool he likes her so much. Apparently, she had a record contract and recorded a video previously...


Chris Watson, 20 Dover, DE



Singing “Follow Me” by Uncle Kracker, Chris impresses the judges. Simon thinks he looks like a star.


Brooke White, 24 - Van Nuys CA



Pure voice, great personality. She sings “Just Like a Star” by Corrine Baily Rae. The judges love her.



The UGH????


Alexis Cohen, 23, Allentown, PA



Alexis sang “Somebody to Love” by Jefferson Airplane. We are shown a bit of her background - turns out she paints, as well as sing. She's a good painter, actually. And not a bad singer at all. But she is so weird, so out there, that she doesn't get through.



The Bad


James Lewis, 22, Philadelphia PA - “Go Down Moses” Paul Robeson




Ben Haar, 27, Newark, DE - “Doncha” by the Pussycat Dolls





Hum.......... Yeah.


Paul Marturano, 32 New Hope, PA



This one wins the creepy award hands down. He wrote a song about stalking Paula Abdul. It's funny at the beginning, but it quickly turns pretty creepy. He sings, not listening to anyone, advancing slowly on Paula. Simon tries twice to stop him - I think HE was getting worried... Security escorts him out.