The summer is officially in our rear view. It's October now, and the fall is about to show itself well beyond the release of pumpkin spice lattes. While the weather begins to cool and leaves fall to the ground, I can take some solace in really good music that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Today's A-Sides is a fine example of that with three artists you should look out for -- one, you've arguably heard of before. The Vancouver-based pop group Hedley recently released their new song "Kiss You Inside Out," and it's already netted over 1.4 million views on YouTube. It's also been in the Hot AC Top 40. While the band is still kinda, sorta making their mark in the states (they scored a hit with "Perfect" as well), they're already ginormous in their native Canada, releasing four straight double-platinum albums and even performed during the closing ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Late last month, half of the band (Jake Hoggard and Dave Rosin but not Chris Crippin and Tommy Mac) performed "Kiss You Inside Out" and discussed how it came about. Watch below, and see the duo perform "Invincible" exclusively on asidesmusic.com.
"Kiss You Inside Out"
The NYC-based rock/fusion group TAUK tried to make it in the biz with a lead singer, and jam-rockin' tunes but they've found better results without a front man. Strictly instrumental now, the band has garnered attention with their "Pull Factors" EP and standout sets at various festivals this passed summer including Bonnaroo. At the Music Conservatory of Westchester in White Plains, NY at the dog days of summer, the band filmed an "A-Sides" session with me, performing a track, and talking about the evolution of TAUK. Watch. Listen. Love.
Tauk Performance
Tauk Interview
Rounding out this trifecta is the Brooklyn-based trio known as Tuff Sunshine. John Leitera, Ani Cordero, and Turner Stough have each been members of other bands, but they came together last year to make some indie rock with punk and soul undertones. The chemistry was evident right away, and they quirky churned out their debut EP "Half-mast/Steadfast." Late last month, the trio filmed an A-Sides at the Conservatory, performed "Let 'Em In" and discussed where they've been, and where they're going.
"Let 'Em In"
Interview
About A-Sides with Jon Chattman
Jon Chattman's music series features artists (established or not) from all genres performing a track, and discussing what it means to them. This informal series focuses on the artist making art in a low-threatening, extremely informal (sometimes humorous) way. No bells, no whistles -- just the music performed in a random, low-key setting followed by an unrehearsed chat. In an industry where everything often gets overblown and over manufactured, I'm hoping this is refreshing.