Mar 2, 2007

Recommended MySpace listening

By Paul Freeman / Entertainment Writer

RYAN SHAW
Ryan Shaw opens for Robert Randolph at the Warfield tonight, but he should soon be headlining major venues. Coming from a gospel background, this Georgia-born, New York-based singer exudes pure soul. An upcoming tour with Joss Stone will further expand his fan base. The first song on his MySpace page, "Nobody," has a drive reminiscent of Stevie Wonder. He gets into high gear on the funky "Do the 45," then settles it down for the potent ballad "I'm Your Man."
www.myspace.com/thisisryanshaw

THOMAS DOLBY
Now based in Silicon Valley, where he developed the Beatnik software technology used in most of the world's cell phones, Thomas Dolby has recently returned to performing. The innovative synth/electronica artist plays Redwood City's Little Fox on Sunday night (March 11). In addition to real-time looping on a computer laptop, he incorporates the Jazz Mafia Horns, comprised of top-notch Bay Area musicians Adam Theis on trombone, Rich Armstrong on trumpet and Ron Cohen on tenor sax. This show celebrates the release of Dolby's new CD and DVD, "The Sole Inhabitant." But you can also expect to hear his vintage material, such as the '80s monster hit "She Blinded Me with Science," which still garners tons of airplay.
www.myspace.com/thomasdolby

20 MINUTE LOOP
You'll want to put the songs of the terrific San Francisco indie rock band 20 Minute Loop on an endless loop. Their sound is totally addictive. With strong hooks, crisp guitars and the engaging vocals of Greg Giles and Kelly Atkins, their songs cry out for repeated play. The three numbers on their page - "Our William Tell," "Ambassadors" and "Miriam Hopkins" - carve out distinctive, but equally appealing niches. Intriguing lyrics complement the glorious melodies.
www.myspace.com/20minuteloop

MARGO GURYAN
One of the '60s finest songwriters, Margo Guryan's enchanting tunes have been recorded by such artists as Mama Cass, Astrud Gilberto, Jackie DeShannon, Julie London and Spanky & Our Gang. But no other singer can duplicate her own warm, wonderful, winsome renditions of "Take a Picture" or the classic "Sunday Morning." Those numbers can be found on her "Take a Picture" CD. The Web page also offers the irresistible "Timothy Gone" from her "25 Demos" CD. Be sure to check out the video to Guryan's new song, "16 Words." It's a wildly imaginative, animated creation that amplifies her insightful, clever, politically charged song. Images of Dick Cheney as a ventriloquist (guess who his dummy is?) and Gomer Pyle capture the tone perfectly. Guryan's celeb fans include Beck and Shirley Manson (Garbage). Visit her page and you'll be a devotee, as well.
www.myspace.com/margoguryan

THE CHOP TOPS
The Santa Cruz rockabilly trio the Chop Tops rips it up from the get-go, channeling surf guitar king Dick Dale for their hot-as-hell Web page-opening number, "El Diablo," as well as "Bad One Stomp." They also call to mind the Stray Cats as they wail on "My Curse" and "My Last Ride." You can catch the band at Santa Clara's Claran Cocktail Lounge on March 16.
www.myspace.com/thechoptops

RACHEL WRIGHT
Great performances don't require adornment. Rachel Wright's page presents recordings that are exquisite in their simplicity. With lovingly crafted songs and gorgeous vocals, little more is needed. Acoustic guitars and occasional harmony enhance the Liverpool singer's sensitive, soothing, exceptionally pretty and expressive voice. A glockenspiel adds an extra measure of magic to the uplifting "Healer."
www.myspace.com/rachaelwrightmusic

THREE
If you're partial to heartfelt female harmonies, with voices immaculate in their technique, you might want to listen to London trio Three's sumptuous songs. The arrangements are lush and lavish. The vocals hold classical/pop crossover allure.
www.myspace.com/threemusic

DC CARDWELL
Irish-born, Australia-based artist DC Cardwell is a late bloomer. Now it's time for the world to discover his exceptional songwriting/performing gifts. Cardwell plays all the parts on his brilliantly conceived songs. "Peace and Love" is a pop-folk-rocker you'll immediately embrace. It's been a favorite on Neil Young's Web site showcase (neilyoung.com). Also impressive are the beautiful "The First Time," the Dylan-esque "A Way with Words" and the witty "Tom is Everybody's Friend" (which should amuse all MySpace aficionados). Cardwell is featured on two new tribute CDs, one dedicated to Ricky Nelson, the other to Jellyfish.
www.myspace.com/dccardwell