What's on your iPod?

The Herald recently caught up with local musician Benjamin "Benoir" Metzger, an award-winning multi-instrumentalist, composer and educator, who spoke to us about his favorite albums that he’s listening to at the moment. You can catch him hosting the open mic jam at Minnesota's on Jan. 27 at 10 p.m. —AR

MGMT, “Congratulations” — If you ever wondered what today's flower child generation of rockers would sound like, check out this album. MGMT is brimming with psychedelic sounds, youthful energy, poetic pop lyrics and a fantastic sonic palette that broadcasts layers of trippy keyboards and guitars from bands like The Who, Wilco, Pink Floyd, Air, and The Beatles.

Dr. John, “Tribal” — The song "Feel Good Music" opens with that Nawlins' flavor Dr. John is famous for. His southern blues piano compliments his deep and distinctive voice. Sonically, this work is top notch, so turn it up on a nice system and you'll feel groovy.

Bruce Springsteen, “Darkness On The Edge Of Town” — Recently I saw “The Promise,” a documentary about the “Darkness On the Edge of Town” recording sessions, and was blown away. I was so moved by the documentary I had to buy the original album and I've been listening to it ever since. “Darkness” has recently been re-issued as a 6-disc set complete with the documentary, two live concert DVDs and alternate/unreleased tracks. For fans, it’s a Bruce Springsteen goldmine.

Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble, “Live at Montreux 1982 & 1985” — Stevie Ray Vaugh is one of the greatest guitarists of all time, and this live recording is truly insane! Guitarists will go nuts over the passion and energy within these arrangements.

John Coltrane, “A Love Supreme” — This is a timeless masterpiece created by one of the most influential musicians of our time. Inspired by his belief in a higher power while overcoming a long drug addiction, Coltrane combined love poems and deeply spiritual music to acknowledge the power of the universe that resonates within us all.