Sharing the Stimuli: Thank You Mr. Vander Ark

Many of you might remember a little band called The Verve Pipe. Their hit single "The Freshmen" bought the band a one-way ticket to temporary fame for a little while on MTV. They're still touring and still rocking (although some of their biggest venues these days may be the beer tent at the state fair). Front man, Brian Vander Ark has just released a new CD entitled Angel, Put Your Face On. I've been following this guy around for a while. He's touring with a variety of bands that we don't hear much from anymore (Toad The Wet Sprocket, The Gin Blossoms, Big Head Todd and the Monsters...) and promoting his new CD. I'm hoping you'll give it a listen (the complete CD can be streamed for free using the "store" link on his website or at his My Space site) and maybe even purchase a copy for yourself and a buddy.

"Angel" is filled with both great songwriting and outstanding vocals. Lyrically speaking, Brian has always been a cut above the rest and it has never been more evident than with this new release. Whether you're into the upbeat, poppish melodies or slower ballads, each track is masterfully constructed by a singer/songwriter who has spent most of his life mastering the craft.