Music Discovery Mondays - Summer Edition

I can't think of a better time to create the perfect mix tape than in the summertime as you cruise the sunshine-blazed freeways.  Let me help you conjure the perfect summer mix with the latest singles before they blow up.


1.  Unstoppable - Lianne La Havas

Lianne La Havas embodies a spirit and voice that beautifully contradicts itself.  One minute she exudes glowing confidence, and the next, her voice emits a tender vulnerability.  Either way, her new sophomore album, Blood, due on July 31st is a tour de force that is truly indeed 'unstoppable.'






2.  Tomato Can - The Arcs

Dan Auerbach knows how to keep his hands full.  When he's not recording and touring as half of The Black Keys, he's producing albums for other highly regarded artists (*ahem* Dr. John) and generating dozens of other creative side projects.

Auerbach's latest musical venture includes his latest band The Arcs, comprised of his closest musical collaborators and pals.  Check out their Spaghetti Western-inspired fable of a doomed boxer.





3.  Love Isn't Anybody's Fault - BC Camplight

Brian Christinzio, also known as B.C. Camplight, has steadily released three critically acclaimed power pop albums in his newfound homeland via England.  Be sure to harken his latest infectiously somber single, "Love Isn't Anybody's Fault."




See also:

Music Discovery Mondays - Record Store Day Afterthought

Music Discovery Mondays - Lady Tunesmith Chapter

Music Discovery Mondays

Music Discovery Mondays - First Edition

Digital Vacation Scrapbook

Hello dear bloggers and readers.  In case anyone is wondering, I haven't discontinued my blog.  I simply went on a 12 day excursion where my husband and I juggled vacation, family time and various errands.  I thought it might be fun to showcase the highlights of my time away from blogging.  Sometimes a break from routine (and the same four walls) can provide you with the proper inspiration and motivation in which to write.  Without further ado, I share with you my digital vacation scrapbook.

Los Angeles Chapter

We first began our trek to the Dodgers stadium where we met up with my parents and some dear friends.  Although June 21st marked the first official day of summer, I couldn't help but celebrate a mere two days early with a Dodgers dog in hand.  

The very next day, we were all in for a big treat.  My parents asked us to accompany them with 'Meet and Greet' passes to see Brian Wilson live at the Greek Theater.  

(Beach Boys Brian Wilson, Al Jardine - left, Blondie Chaplin -right)

Here we are enjoying our front row seats at The Greek.  

 We didn't have to search hard for Sugarman.  The newly legend-certified artist Rodriguez graced us with his humbled and stripped down opening act performance.

Wilson's performance exuded 'good vibes' all around as birthday blessings were bestowed upon him.

Santa Barbara Chapter

Next, we set our sights on the breathtaking coastlines of Santa Barbara as my husband's sister competed in the Santa Barbara half marathon.   Apart from cheering in the sidelines, we spent quite a bit of family time lodging on the beach and exploring the downtown hot spots.  

A vacation doesn't feel complete without a little bit of urban traveling.  We stumbled upon the coffee shop stable The French Press located downtown.  Featured in the Thrillist's 21 Best Coffee Shops In America listicle, The French Press truly holds its own.

What are some of your favorite vacation memories?