BLUES
"Changing the Game," Willie Clayton, N-Zone Entertainment

Willie Clayton is known for his longevity in the music business, recording for more than 30 years. As a vocalist, Clayton is obviously very much influenced by the work of Al Green. Clayton has been on the R&B charts, but is a recognized name in the Chicago blues scene. Clayton also has worked with beloved mainstream artists such as James Taylor.

COUNTRY
"Bluegrass All Stars: Sixteen Grand Slams from Sugar Hill," Various artists, Sugar Hill

This compilation includes various contemporary bluegrass artists including Nickel Creek; The Gibson Brothers; Alan Bibey; Jerry Douglas; Don Rigsby; Jim Mills; Baucom, Bibey & Blueridge; Doyle Lawson/Quicksilver; Ronnie Bowman; Lonesome River Band; Bryan Sutton; Tim O'Brien; Seldom Scene; Randy Howard; Sam Bush and Byron Berline.

JAZZ
"Nicks Bump," Ben Sidran, Liquid 8

In the early 1960s, when pianist Ben Sidran, Steve Miller and Boz Scaggs attended the University of Wisconsin, they had a band called the Ardells. Years later, Sidran was called upon by Miller to appear on keyboards on several Steve Miller Band albums. Sidran has written many hits for the Steve Miller Band, including co-writing "Space Cowboy." Sidran's early albums rely on acoustic work and thoughtful lyrics, while his more recent works have revolved around electronic instruments and a jazz-funk sound.

RAP
"Wreckin' 2004," Lil' Keke, Presidential

Lil' Keke is a well-known name in the Houston rap scene. Lil' Keke has released numerous solo albums as well as many albums alongside fellow Houston underground rapper DJ Screw. Since 1997, he's released at least one album per year.

ROCK
"Give People What They Want in Lethal Doses," Challenger, Jade Tree

This very loud and very punk trio releases its first album. The group is made up of the backbone of punk powerhouse group Milemarker featuring Dave Laney on vocals and guitars and Al Burian on vocals and bass. Think Hüsker Dü or the Minutemen.