Video: Surfer Blood “I’m Not Ready” (Live in L.A.)
One year ago today, a few lucky fans in Los Angeles got an early peek at what wound up being one of 2011’s best songs. “I’m Not Ready” from Surfer Blood‘s Tarot Classics EP is a winner folks. In the video below, frontman John Paul Pitts and the boys are still a little rough around the edges. But one needs to look no further than the confident faces of Surfer Blood’s members to be assured they knew what they were on to. Tarot Classics was a release both Brett and I have lost sleep over omitting from our year-end “best of” lists. I listen to it weekly. Get a glimpse of one of 2011’s best tracks, before any of us knew exactly what we were in for.
Written by Rob Peoni
Fresh Track: Cold Country “Take it From Me (Nicole Marie)”
Cold Country is the new project from Chicago musician Sean McConnell. Track, “Take It From Me (Nicole Marie)” was posted on Cold Country’s Bandcamp page last Thursday. Strong song writing and polished musicianship are displayed during my introduction to McConnell’s work. Although, McConnell calls Chicago home, a local tie was uncovered after Dan Snodgrass of the Bonesetters introduced me to this song. McConnell is responsible for mastering the tracks for the Bonesetters debut SAVAGES!. This should provide readers some street credibility as ‘Savages’ made room on our year-end lists. This proves to be another great story of Midwest musicians working together to help promote each other’s music. I concept that I am always excited to endorse.
Written by Brett McGrath
Thought on Tracks 
Dreamers of the Ghetto Kick Off Spring Tour
Bloomington, IN’s Dreamers of the Ghetto made a noteworthy splash in 2011. Their 2011 album Enemy / Lover, received considerable coverage from the indie blogosphere, resulting in the band performing at Shea Stadium by the end of the year. This week, Dreamers will play a handful of Midwestern tour dates, starting with tomorrow’s show at Otto’s in DeKalb. Check out their tour dates below, and go see these guys live!
February 21, 2012: Dekalb, IL – Otto’s Nightclub
February 22, 2012: Chicago, IL – Schuba’s Tavern
February 23, 2012: Madison, WI – The Frequency
February 24, 2012: Minneapolis, MN – First Avenue & 7th ST. Entry
February 25, 2012: Champagne, IL – Mike & Molly’s
March 19, 2012: Nashville, TN – The Basement
April 13, 2012: Bloomington, IN – Rhinos Youth Center
Connect with Dreamers of the Ghetto via Facebook | Twitter
Written by Rob Peoni