2012 has certainly been an incredible year for music!
Firstly, I want to thank all of you wonderful readers for giving me the
opportunity to share with you all of the wonderful music/awards shows
commentary/interviews I have posted. I am most grateful for the opportunity to
have you join me in my music journey! And now…let’s get right down to it!
With only days until Christmas, I’m sure many
of you (like me) are still in the last-minute scramble to find the perfect gifts
for everyone on your list. That one aunt or uncle who you never know what to
give them (but they always manage to give you the best gift ever.) Your favorite hairdresser who always makes you
look fabulous and always listens to your life story each time you’re in the
chair. Even when you have to survive the daunting “Secret Santa” gift exchange for
someone you’ve never spoken more than two words to.
Yes, we all have those last-minute gifting mental blocks –
whether we’d like to admit it or not. But this year, instead of grabbing for
that Dunkin’ Donuts gift-card or the generic box of chocolates, get a little
creative and share the gift of music! Homemade playlists are always
appreciated, but for those of you short on time and patience, why not try a few
of these stocking stuffer suggestions?
For the alternative
junkie: We all have that one person in our lives still stuck in the 90’s
alternative rock scene. And while I would love to suggest adding Foo Fighters
to their collection, why not try something a little different – like the latest
Smashing Pumpkins album Oceania?
Billy Corgan and Co., like the years, have evolved their sound little by
little, yet retained that wonderful rock quality that brings us back to ripped
jeans, flannel shirts, and Doc Martens. (And for a real reminiscent moment, “The
Celestials” might just do the trick.)
For the “Old Soul”: When
nothing else will do but one of the classics, I say figure out preference of
genre and have some fun! If they’re into the 60’s folk scene, then Bob Dylan’s Tempest might satisfy the itch, because
Dylan is just awesome. Or for a little more 70’s/80’s rock n’ roll, nothing
says classic like the boss himself, Bruce Springsteen! Wrecking Ball truly captures quintessential Springsteen – and yes,
being a Jersey girl, he’s one of the best! And if they’re truly a soul kind of
person, then Bobby Womack’s The Bravest
Man in The Universe will work just nicely – check out the track “Dayglo
Reflection” featuring Lana Del Ray.
For Mr./Ms. “Off The
Beaten Path”: There will always be that one person who doesn’t quite fit
into a particular category – especially since they love to take chances with
their music! (Obviously, my favorite person in the world to shop for.) If you
can’t figure a particular genre to work with, then why not try out some bluegrass
rock for a bit of a challenge? Trust me, those ‘eclectic tastes’ will
appreciate it when you decide to hand them the latest Avett Brothers album The Carpenter. And if they can’t get enough, add a little
Alabama Shakes Boys & Girls to
the mix! “Hold On” has found a permanent home on my iPod.
For the modern-day British
Invasion fanatic: The British music scene has made a bit of a comeback
since Mumford & Sons. And yes, I would recommend getting Babel because it’s just that wonderful –
no joke, go out and get it…for everyone! (And of course Adele – but do I even
need to mention her?!? This is just a given.) Yet if you’re looking for a
non-Mumford gift item, you could also try out Allo Darlin’ and their latest
album Europe. I’ve really been into “Capricornia”
and “Northern Lights” these days…I have a feeling your gift recipient will be
too!
For the traditional
Holiday enthusiast: I’ll admit it: I’m a holiday junkie! And for those you
know who are just like me, what else will do but a holiday album? Especially
for this season, I highly recommend Michael Bublé’s Christmas. This modern-day heartthrob can make anyone swoon with
his throw-back crooning style. I may also be slightly addicted to his rendition
of “Jingle Bells” featuring the Puppini Sisters…or his homage to Mariah Carey
by covering her famous holiday hit “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” And if they’re
a true traditionalist – then Bublé nails it with one of my all-time favorites “I’ll
Be Home For Christmas.”
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Whether they’re into electronic or disco or even heavy
metal, remember that the greatest gift you can give your loved ones is time
together…and some great tunes!
- Jenn
