Things We Like
Sooner or Later in Spain
Marah (Yep Records)
Led by super-talented Conshohocken natives Dave and Serge Bielanko, Marah has been dubbed “the best rock band in America nobody knows”—nobody, that is, except celebrity authors Stephen King and Nick Hornby, who are both big fans, and rock icons Steve Earle and Bruce Springsteen, who’ve performed with the group in various capacities. The new live DVD Sooner or Later in Spain is a stunning introduction to the band in all its unruly and impassioned glory.
Alex’s Greatest Hits
(Sony/BMG/Range Records)
With such upbeat tracks as the Monkees’ “I’m A Believer,” Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Shining Star” and Philly home girl Patti LaBelle’s Over the Rainbow, it’s hard not to feel inspired by this compilation, which includes some of Alex Scott’s favorite songs. Even better, more than half the proceeds from its sale go to the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer. alexsgreatesthits.com.
The Dog Lover’s Companion to Philadelphia—The Inside Scoop on Where to Take Your Dog
By Christine Matturro McLaughlin (Avalon Travel Publishing, 250 pages)
This clever take on traditional travel guides offers an in-depth look at the best places to see the sights, enjoy a good meal or take in a concert or movie—all with Fido in tow. McLaughlin and her two favorite canines, Linus (now deceased) and Nellie, explored more than 100 off-leash areas, parks, historical sites, beaches and more, all organized by county with maps and lists of nearby accommodations.