Hey there,

Looks like y'all are listing your Big Five most influential bands. Here are
mine (and compared to the rest of yours, I'm feeling a bit weird about my
choices....but oh well).

1. SIMON & GARFUNKEL
My earliest musical memories around these albums. I just listened to
"Parsley" a week ago and I'm amazed at how much they rocked, how good the
harmonies are, and how timeless they are.
2. JOHN MELLENCAMP
"Jack & Diane" was my favorite song in 5th grade, but his next few albums
really are amazing. There are songs on "Scarecrow" and "Lonesome Jubilee"
that really move me to this day.
3. THE HOOTERS
The first time I remember being really enlightened by the use of
folk/country instruments with a really loud rock band. And, man, those guys
could play their instruments!
4. THE RAINMAKERS
Took my ears a while to grasp this band, but once I did, I couldn't get
enough. Walkenhorst is still my all-time favorite lyricist.
5. STYX
My childhood fave, and I still get into them.

Jonathan Rundman
Salt Lady Records
http://www.saltlady.com