[Rick and Roll]

I was going to do a show of songs that had Thanks, giving, corn, pilgrims, etc in the name - however, I ran out of motivation - anyway, it's hard to find a song that references "Squanto"...

So I moved up next week's selections to this week, and worked them into a theme.

(Airing Sunday, November 25 from 8-11 PM EST and Monday, November 26 from 1-4 PM EST)

I'm thankful that bands are around that write great songs and play shows where I can roll in, get a perfect seat, and enjoy. One such band is Izz...

Izz - Live At Nearfest June 23, 2007

Introduction: Swallow Our Pride
My River Flows
Assurance
Coming Like Light
Late Night Salvation
Where I Belong
Star Evil Gnoma Su
Mists of Dalriada

The complete set of this year's Nearfest opener. You can get this disc in about 2 weeks, but they had it at the NJ Proghouse show last Saturday (have to do a review sometime). This disc sounds perfect. The production is superb.

I'm also thankful for little musical gems, such as the following EP from an Izz member...

Laura Meade - Laura Meade (2007)

Charming
Best Defenses
Kerri's Song
Then I Could See
Plucking Whispers

About 15 minutes of fine music, also featuring John Galgano and Paul Bremner from Izz.

Another thankful thing is opening bands who don't suck, and are really nice people to boot -

Anton Roolaart - selections from "Dreamer" (2007)

Near or Far
On To The Afterglow
Dreamer

I've played this one before here, but since Anton opened for Izz here's a good chance to sample it again. Very mature and fine prog.

And I am thankful for the many Moonfolk I've met and their musical suggestions. Rogor Mortis has a wide pallate of musical tastes, and periodically alerts me to some really good stuff. Last week we heard some of his recommendations - Jebo, Dragonfly - and this week is a Swedish (of course the prolific Sweden) band very much like a stew of Queen, City Boy, It Bites, a pinch of Zappa and a touch of Dream Theater.

A.C.T. - from Today's Report (1999)

Waltz With Mother Nature
Why Bother
Today's Report
Welcome
Cat Eyes
The Chase
New Age Polka

This one is more proggy than their others. Sharp guitar and keys work, great vocals, and perfect melodies.

A.C.T. - from Imaginary Friends (2001)

Take It Easy
Hippest Flop
A Supposed Tour
Biggest Mistake
Imaginary Friends
She/Male
Mouse In A Maze

The first song has a chorus you will be humming for days. And the last song is an excellent cover of the old Saga classic.