John Hiatt lets his life steer his songs. He's one of America's most keenly observant songwriters and his eye for detail takes in not only the world around him, but also his own vulnerability in the face of life, love, aging and memory. His latest record is a rootsy outing, filled with his characteristic honesty and passion. His band is tight and supportive and simply called Combo - they are fantastic live. We love the way Hiatt's passionate vocals carom off the canyon walls and into our very souls. You will, too. To read, listen or watch more, click here.

The pantheon of kickass bands that hails from the steamy South is deep. For the five musicians who comprise the hard rocking, country-inflected, blues-driven band that's been playing more than 200 gigs a year, it's all about the well-crafted song. They grew up listening to The Beatles, Stones and Aerosmith and strive for that kind of excellence. "We're always trying to come up with songs and records that are as good as the ones that we grew up with," drummer Brit Turner explains. To this we say, "Turn it up." To read, listen and watch more, click here.