We're heading into our next tour in a week which will push our number of shows played this year well past the 100 mark. A goal we set out to accomplish at the beginning of the year and something that we hope to double in 2009. And through all of those shows, we've been able to experience many places and artists that we felt that deserved a nod of the head or an overly expressed cat call for what they are doing.

Boomsnake: This duo our of Portland Oregon has been the most entertaining and engaging show we have ever seen. And doing it with just two people makes it even more deserving of a listen. They combine great song writing with expertly placed guitar and vocal melodies and a drummer who plays every thing that needs to be played and nothing else. If they are coming through town I would suggest making the effort to see them. www.myspace.com/boomsnake

Hello Kavita: This band's music is beautiful and captivating. We've been a fan of their music since first hearing it on myspace and had the pleasure of opening for them a couple nights ago. What makes them great is the combination of great musicians across the board, each with their own ability to play simple melodies together that make music you could listen to for hours. www.myspace.com/hellokavita

The Heyday: Rarely do you find a band with so much talent that is willing to work so hard. The reason why we have to recognize this band is not just because of their great music but they aren't waiting around for anyone to discover them. They've been hitting the road lately as much as they can, which can be easily romanticized, but is a hard for an independent band to do. www.myspace.com/theheyday

Umbrellas: We opened up for these guys over a year ago at a show in Colorado Springs. Their EP beach front property is well worth it. www.myspace.com/umbrellas

Coldplay: We have to hand it to a band that seemingly made the perfect album 2 albums ago and has since repeated that same feat twice. Viva la Vida is well deserving of the hype that it's received and has been the second most listened to album on the road.

Aqualung: If Bono and Robbie Seay had a baby Matt Hales would be it. His gritty bell like voice, and composition skills make him the most overall talented person in the industry right now. Aqualungs new (although not really new) disc Memory Man is sonically one the most incredible albums I've heard and should be at the top of your iTunes list. www.myspace.com/aqualung