Between festivals, opening slots, and his own solo performances, I've seen Justin Townes Earle at least a dozen times live. His show never gets old, his charisma is infectious, and his delivery is remarkable. He's a charming performer, in other words, pulling strongly from traditional and contemporary folk and country music. In fact, he's so good at this blend of music inspired by traditional styles that the Americana Music Association named him Emerging Artist of the Year in September.

Earle has just announced a string of headlining dates for 2010, and I'd strongly suggest checking him out. The full list of dates follows:
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Neil Young turns 64 today. It's a perfect opportunity to get acquainted with his music, or to revisit some of the great albums you already know and love. Perhaps take this opportunity to crank some old Buffalo Springfield tunes. I'm listening to Chrome Dreams II, but may move backwards as the day goes on.

It's also a great day to let you know that Young has been named the MusiCares Person of the Year for 2010. Come January 29, artists as variant as Emmylou Harris, Josh Groban, Crosby Stills & Nash, and Red Hot Chili Peppers, among others, will gather to honor young in a monster concert in the week preceding the Grammy Awards. According to MusiCares, Young is being honored for his philanthropic work via Farm Aid and other organizations.

photo courtesy Special Ops Media

I know it's not even Thanksgiving, but stores are already stocking Christmas wrapping paper, wreaths, lights, and other decorations. I've yet to hear Christmas music blasting from any speakers, but I know it's coming. I'm not one of those people who hates Christmas music. In fact, I'm quite fond of the traditional carols (go figure). Still, I'm willing to admit it's possible to find a holiday record that comes off less-than-stellar.

So, as autumn pulls us tooth and nail, ever closer to winter, as the scent of pine and cinnamon start to take over the air, and our minds turn more toward surrounding ourselves with family, here are a few highly recommended albums for the holiday season. They're not all Christmas albums either, mind you. Whether you're a traditionalist or a secularist, whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or Midwinter, there is bound to be something on this list for you.

image © Rising Tide

For the past decade, David Bazan has been adding insightful, intelligent songs to the world. Most notably as the lead singer and songwriter for indie folk group Pedro the Lion from 1998-2004 and, more recently, as a provocative, thoughtful solo artist. His latest release - his first full-length, titled Curse Your Branches - will no doubt make many critics' year-end lists. If you haven't heard it yet, it's well worth checking out. Or, just learn more about David Bazan with this bio and profile, including recommended CDs and MP3s.

image © Barsuk Records