friday favorites: bands that make me feel awesome for liking

I would say that I have a pretty diverse taste in music. However, most people I know will say that they like a little of everything, usually saying that they don't like country and/or rap when saying that on their facebook page. My ipod is pretty diverse when it comes my music selections and I am working on not being ashamed or having to explain when a friend is looking though it ("yeah, I have Peter, Paul and Mary... I like 'em!"). But there are just some bands that I feel give me extra cool points for liking. Maybe they aren't as well-known or mainstream as what is played on the radio or I can say that I loved them before they became big. Or maybe the band is just so unexpected to be a favorite but I love them anyway. And I love sharing these bands with friends and seeing that they like them too. So for today's installment, I give you bands that make me feel cool for liking.

The B-52's - I've loved them since "Love Shack" came out in the late 80's. I still think that they are out-there cool and will forever include "Love Shack" in my top 5 favorite songs of all time.

The Decemberists - Even though both I and the band are from Oregon, I saw them in concert in Boston and have enjoyed them ever since. Their music is distinctive and, at times, epic. Definite cool-points here.

Jenny Lewis (solo and with Rilo Kiley) - I love the fact that the woman who makes interesting and good music is the same person as the daughter of Shelly Long in the movie "Troop Beverly Hills." Awesome.

Kings of Convenience - These guys have a really mellow, chill sound that is perfect for relaxing to. You'd like them, trust me.

Loretta Lynn - This Queen of Country truly kicks butt. Her early, more well-known stuff as well as her collaboration with Jack White on "Van Lear Rose." You must check out the song "Portland, Oregon" on that album. It will make you feel cooler just for listening to it.

Gogol Bordello - my friend just introduced me to these guys. They play gypsy punk which reminds me of Dropkick Murphys but instead of bagpipes, they have accordions and a great, fun gypsy sound. I'd love to see them live some day.

Pink Martini - If my life were a never-ending cocktail party (as it is in my head), this band would be the continuous soundtrack. This is another Portland band and I love their eclectic, jazzy sound. They make me happy.

She and Him - Actress Zooey Deschanel is She and M.Ward is Him. When I first heard her voice on the movie "Elf" I didn't know what to think. But the more I listened (such as her in the role of Lady Larken in the made-for-tv production of the musical "Once Upon a Mattress") the more I fell in love. This duo has two albums out and I really enjoy them both. I recommend!!!

There is more music that makes me feel awesome, but I think that I will save that for another day. In the mean time, you should check these folks out and then we can feel awesome for liking them together.