Named After My Uncle "Nick"...el

Okay, maybe not REALLY but how cool would that be if I really did have an uncle Nick and a band was named after him? Ok, maybe not that cool. Makes for a lame joke, though! :)

K, first off: I apologize once more that I have yet to post some of the songs that have been suggested to me. I've been waiting to get enough for a whole post of nothing but what others have suggested and I think we're almost there. So, as usual, keep suggesting. Specifics always help but if all you can manage is a band name, that works too (it'll just take me some time to listen to their stuff and find some favorites... which is great for me but not so speedy for y'all)

So, I'll try to keep this one brief (which, of course, probably won't happen... sorry Garrett ;) Nickel Creek. Abso-freekin'-awesome. The tunes are catchy, well crafted and fun but the main draw for me is the sheer TALENT, with a capital T... (and ALENT) that is behind these songs. If I've got my backstories straight, they (Sean and Sarah Watkins and Chris Thile) were child prodigies on Guitar, Fiddle, and Mandolin respectively who formed a group in their early teens (?) and were simply amazing until they separated 18 years later. They're all doing solo stuff now some of which is okay and other stuff which is... well, not. But give 'em a listen, "cuz they good!" to quote Bubs (if you get that reference, you're awesome. Pat yourself on the back or buy yourself something nice ;)

I would strongly suggest listening to these albums in their entirety.  But for the "time-crunch-ed" peeps out there I'll give you the highlights: From their first album "Nickel Creek" (very creative title, btw) I like their instrumentals the most because it showcases just how amazing they are. Check out "Ode to a Butterfly" ( mind blowing amazing-ness occurs especially @ the 2:12 mark) and "House of Tom Bombadil." For vocals, check out "Out of the Woods" and "When You Come Back Down."

Their next album, "This Side" is probably my favorite. Awesomeness being "Smoothie Song," "This Side" (which is probably their most recognizable... "this is the reason they are successful and famous") and "Green and Grey." I also really like "Spit on a Stranger" but most people think it's pretty silly. It does have a rockin' awesome electric-wah pedal effect on the fiddle, though.

"Why Should the Fire Die" is a bit darker but still has some good ones. "Doubting Thomas" is just plain smooth. Absolutely incredible harmonies. Also in "Jealous of the Moon." "Scotch & Chocolate" is another amazing instrumental which is particularly fun because it starts out slow and smooth and builds. "Tomorrow is a Long Time" is also a good song for Sarah (her voice on her other ones kinda bothers me a little... don't know why). Kinda minor and it's a "bitter song" but "Somebody more like you" is kinda cool (who doesn't enjoy a good "bitter song" every once in a while?)

And just for good measure: Chris Thile's blowing Bach's mind!... Well, my mind anyways... hopefully yours too! Enjoy! As always, feel free to share suggestions! Or just tell your friends!