There's a few records in my collection that manage to continually inspire me. They do not feature huge, lavish studio production and polish. They are not the product of an extaordinary budget and years of meticulous studio dissection. These albums are small. Understated and perhaps upon first listen, underwhelming.

I sometimes refer to these oft-forgotten albums as 'bedroom recordings'. Often because they are precisely that; small albums recorded in one's bedroom. Quaint music of epic grandeur. Here are a few I would recommend checking out if the mood strikes you...

Lisa Germano "Geek the Girl"

People here in Bloomington know Lisa, or know someone here who knows Lisa. I'd say in the circles our band runs in she is much more famous than local rock god Johnny Cougar. Certainly more respected artistically anyway. Many of us have been trying to figure out which house on Washington St she recorded this gut wrenching classic in. Apparently it was done with an SM57 mic and an ADAT. Very minimal set up. The music within is personal beyond belief. Real skid row stuff and absolutely genuine.

Cyrus Rego "Cyrus Rego"

So many Texans have mastered the art of blissed-out drone. Here's another one for you. Emperor Jones quietly released this gem back in 1999. Whenever I hear this record I think of massive, all day long tropical rain showers in Mobile.

Belong "October Language"

This record is so aptly titled. Much sonic treatment that in turn creates un-premeditated melody. These guys are from New Orleans and I know I'm mostly alone on this one...but this sounds so much more to me like the city's soundtrack than say The Dirty Dozen Brass Band. It's all where you are coming from I guess.

(more to come)