So, I just heard about this awesome new app that is originating in my hometown of Columbus, OH.  It’s called Cannon.fm and its a play on words off the musical term “canon.”  The app pretty much functions as a Pandora-like program that exclusively plays local music.  Right now, it is limited to Columbus based artists but the founder hopes to expand.  I decided to try out the app for myself (still in beta form) on my iPhone.

The app is very intuitive and easy to catch on to.  A welcome screen tells us to choose our city, but since Columbus is the only city the app caters to right now the app skips over what will presumably be a list of metropolitan areas in the US goes right to a list of genres.  Inevitably, given the genre-busting going on these days not every radio station has a completely unique playlist.  Unsurprisingly, the Rock, Alternative, and Singer/Songwriter playlists are the most extensive (in the library which has 600 submissions from 200 artists…and counting).  Electronic/Dance led me to repeat songs relatively quickly but I think as the concept catches on this will change. 

I love this idea.  Bands which are confined by localities and barriers to entry common to indie groups will have exposure to any listener with an iPhone or Droid.  People can vote songs up or down, just like on Pandora.  You are allowed to repeat songs though, something you cannot do on Pandora.  The interface is classy, edgy, and visually appealing without having too much going on.

Pay attention to this little start-up.  What better place for this concept to originate than in Columbus, a city with a blossoming music scene that is often overlooked by the rest of the country? Now people will be able to be exposed to Columbus counterparts with ease.

If you are a band looking to be heard or a listener looking to learn more, check out the official website!