Genre: indie rock, alternative, acoustic

Why we like it: Any band that can pull off a cd with 8 members without it sounding like trash day is alright by us. Lead singer and mastermind of MNSS, Richard Andrews, writes beautiful lyrics you could possibly never relate to, but really want to. This is one cd that didn’t leave our player for at least a month, and frequently makes return trips. New release slated for 2008, and we can’t wait.

Why we don’t: The Cat song. We have no idea what Andrews is talking about, and the chorus ‘meow, meow, meow,’ is a sore listen for any cat hater. If you love cats, be our guest to love this song. Production is a bit lo-fi at times, and isn’t the same throughout all of Dust of Retreat.

Like Artists: The Format, Archer Avenue, Damien Rice

Genre: indiepop, alternative, swedish

Why we like it: Young Folks. If you’ve yet to purchase this whistling gem, or heard it, go now. Do not pass go, do not collect 200 bucks. This cd gained no notoriety in their homeland of Sweden, but saw huge success in the UK, US and Ireland. The CD on the whole is pretty good, using synths, guitars, and some very cool vocal effects. If you like a re-birthing of 60’s Europe rock, you’ll dig this.

Why we don’t: Nothing bad from a first listen. Fans of other euro rock bands are going to enjoy this one, while if you don’t know a single band from europe, you won’t. Sometimes the vocalists can have heavily accented vocals, but you can always make out what their saying. You just won’t be making out to this disc anytime soon.

Like Artists: I’m from Barcelona, Camera Obscura, Voxtrot

Genre: alt-country, acoustic, singer-songwriter

Why we like it: Canadian s/s Edwards delivers a powerful performance in a love you/hate you relationship. Seems it’s written from an honest place. It’s intimate to a point that makes you feel uncomfortable, like someone is undressing you with their words. If you’re into the acoustic women, you’ll dig it too.

Why we don’t: More on the country side of the alt-country tag. Canadians aren’t supposed to have this much twang wethinks. She definitely listens to a lot of Lucinda Williams, and it’s easy to tell she had a country upbringing. Don’t fault us for not liking country. Please.

Like Artists: Lucinda Williams, Patty Griffin, Sarah Harmer

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