Elvis Perkins ::: Photo by Abbey

* The Local Natives - Daytrotter Session 
I think these guys are the next big thing out of Silverlake. Dreamy Fleet Foxes harmony with more modern pop-sensibilities and songs you can listen to over and over again. Believe me, I have.

* The Rural Alberta Advantage - Hometowns
Postal Service-y electronic tunes with an alt-country twist…why didn’t someone come up with this before?

* Elvis Perkins In Dearland - Elvis Perkins In Dearland
Like I wasn’t going to be listening to one of my all-time favorite’s new album a ton. Happily, it’s an amazing record, which explores new territory for Elvis. But don’t let the upbeat melodies and arrangements fool you, listen beneath those layers and there is still tragedy and heart break.

* Shane Tutmarc - Dark Circles
I still can’t get enough of this record or Shane Tutmarc’s classic song-writing sensibilities.

* Vetiver - Tight Knit
A great album to herald the beginning of spring with, covers a lot of ground despite staying within the parameters of pleasant pop. A dream spring line up for me would include Vetiver and The Fruit Bats, maybe add a little Local Natives in their for good measure.

*Neko Case - Middle Cyclone
One of the most astounding voices in music today, Neko can do no wrong in my book.

*BEADS - No One Knows
So much better than The Blakes. It’s a softer throwback sound, which focuses less on riffs and more on mood, and for the most part it really succeeds.

* Kay Kay and His Weathered Underground - Kay Kay and His Weathered Underground
Somehow this album gets better with every listen. And with each listen I find something new to be in love with about it.  I also love how the band’s new tracks (featured on their Myspace) are taking a little cue from Kirk’s other band, another Sound on the Sound favorite, Wild Orchid Children.