The MTV VMA’s scored a record audience. In fact, it attracted 12 million viewers. As to why MTV scored its biggest ratings to date remains a mystery. In my opinion, the hit show “The Jersey Shore” and Hurricane Irene kept people inside.

The biggest news that follows the MTV VMA’s is Lady Gaga’s  copying Annie Lennox’s gender bender performance from 1984.

Regardless, MTV VMA’s has morphed into scripted reality television and it’s paying off.

1. Mickey Shiloh – Pass Out
2. J Trill – So Bright
3. Danielle Barbe – Wango Tango
4. Glory Days – Can’t Get Enough
5. Stamps – ATL to LA
6. Rob A! – Wifey Material
7. Ryan McAllister – Bell Tower
8. Vera Mesmer – Back From The Dead

Key Track: The Long Way Home

The Story: Roman Holiday is an alternative/pop/rock band from Seattle taking cues from Coldplay, The Killers, and Kings Of Leon. The band has upcoming shows in Seattle. The track Long Way Home is a perfectly crafted indie pop song that will stick in your head for days.

Contact: contact@rohoband.com

The new Red Hot Chili Peppers album, due August 30th was produced by Rick Rubin and “mastered specifically for iTunes to optimize sound quality”. I’m not sure what that means, but here is a link discussing sound quality and loudness wars.

Key Track: Slow Down

The Story: The Blackboard Nails have toured the United Kingdom twice, including a stint at Liverpool’s renowned Sound City Festival, and they’ve recorded with producer Kato Khandwala (The Pretty Reckless, Paramore, Blondie). For fans of The White Stripes, Neon Trees, etc.

Contact: zackstarikov@gmail.com