Every so often my job as publisher of The Independent gives me an inside track on some great new music. I was at a show to see local boys The Trigger Locks strut their stuff when I was stunned by their opening act, a Sacramento, CA outfit called Jackpot. I bought their second CD entitled Weightless for $10 at the show and went on my merry way. I immecdiately fell in love with the organic, melodic tunes combining singer Rusty Miller's quirky but honest voice with simple but meaningful lyrics. Rusty's biggest claim to fame was his groove-laden guitar part on Cake's hit song "Never There." The story goes that he was offered a permanent spot in the band but passed on the Cake to front his own band Jackpot.

I subscribe to their email list so I get regular updates of their upcoming shows and caught them again in Southern Utah at the Bit & Spur in Springdale. There they announced a new album called Shiny Things which after mentioning that I ran an entertainment paper ended up in my mailbox shortly thereafter. Shiny Things is the next step up for this talented foursome. Rusty's voice is maturing and taking on an even more distinct style. This batch of songs is about as good as Alt/Country-Roots Rock gets. Jackpot has earned a permanent place in my eclectic collection next to Wilco, Eels and Coldplay. They are currently touring the Western United States and then a short stint in Europe. I highly recommend you check these guys out. Order either Weightless or Shiny Things and you won't be disappointed and watch this paper for news of any local shows.