Here’s looking at you, 2011

-Posted by Jon Lunger, ArtsQuest’s Marketing Manager and music geek

With the new year comes new music.  Before we all get too jaded with the traditional “woe is the state of popular music” journalism that seems to dominate our collective pop culture consciousness, I thought I’d share my list of 4 musical things I’m actually looking forward to in 2011.

1)  Cage the Elephant- “Thank you, Happy Birthday” - comes out tomorrow: 1-11-11

Those close to me, by now, are most likely tired of me touting CTE as the best new band in the galaxy.  Well, I truly feel they are… “Ain’t No Rest For the Wicked” is one of my all time favorite songs, and I couldn’t be more excited to hear their sophomore record.  I plan on downloading this first thing in the AM.

I’m at a loss to classify their sound, but there are definite heavy influences from the blues, funk and even folk.  But, unless you’ve been living in a cave for the last year, you’re probably already familiar with these lads from Bowling Green, KY.

2) Trouble City Allstars- “Trials and Tribulations”  - comes out soon

Local reggae roots heroes, Trouble City Allstars are one of the valley’s brightest musical stars.  I’ve had the pleasure of seeing these guys live several times, including an awesome segment we filmed for SteelStacks Live!   They always throw down an energetic and fun set, and judging by the tracks they’ve already released, the release of their new album will definitely be worth the wait.

3) Great White Caps-  debut album - comes out in February

Surf rock in a landlocked state?  Yes please.

In addition to an abnormal obsession with Keanu Reeve’s last great movie, Point Break, and a larger-than-life appreciation of 80s swimwear, the GWC expertly manhandle instrumental surf rock.  Another band that puts on a great live show, the Great White Caps are quite possibly my favorite Lehigh Valley based band.  2011 should be huge year for these guys.  Surf’s up.

 4) Andrew Portz and JP -

Hosting SteelStacks Live! is a lot of fun, but perhaps the most enjoyable part of the show is being introduced to some great local talent.

In an upcoming episode, we’ll feature the roots-folk-alt-rock of Andrew Portz and JP.  These guys are a relatively new musical venture and I’m completely pumped for anything they put out… it’s a little bit of Mumford & Sons/ The Avett Brothers, with Andrew Portz and JP’s individual flair.  Keep an eye and ear open for these guys in 2011.