I'll never forget the first night I heard this talented singer-songwriter perform. It was a small bar in the hills of Manayunk on an open mic night. Even 5 years ago, he showed so much promise- emotive guitar-playing, intelligent lyrics, a quiet-but-knowing stage/stool presence.

He's been making the rounds in this town ever since, and I've been pleased to hear him open for some national acts which have come through Philly. I wouldn't compare his music to Morrissey's- apples and oranges, really. But both can be sweet or tart. ;)

Why is it that every Smiths/Morrissey cover is "Please, Please"? Don't get me wrong, this is one of my faves...I can see where many people can either relate to it, or want to cover it. But if you're an artist, and really want to set yourself apart from the rest, then cover another song. It doesn't have to be "How Soon is Now?", or "There is a Light". Try covering something like, "I Want the One I Can't Have", or "Handsome Devil". That's not to say that just because a song is burned, it can't be a good cover. "This Charming Man" was covered by many, including The Strokes. They're a good band, but I think too many artists are covering the same songs.

Talk about timing...Jim Boggia plays Genghis Cohen in LA tonight (6/26) at 9:30pm.

http://www.genghiscohen.com/music.html