Stellastarr* - Civilized (2009)

She says: Years back, Stellarstarr*’s first self-titled album quickly became a music staple in my DC apartment. I remember singing loudly in the shower and prancing wildly before going out. However, their second album was overall a huge disappointment for me and I lost interest fast. Maybe I was expecting too much and none of the songs got stuck in my head except for "Lost in Time" (what a fantastic song). To my delight, Civilized echos the Stellastarr* with it's dramatic vocals and it's catchy tracks! Definitely worth a listen or about 50. Right now, I am diggin' “Grafitti Eyes,” “Freak Out,” "Prom Zombie," "Tokyo Sky," and "Underneath the Knife."
Do as I say, and see them live.

Mates of State - Get Better [single] (2008)

"Everything's gonna get lighter, even if it never gets better... OH!" These lyrics and vocals feel strangely comforting when I think about my life and work. My itunes counter says this song has been played 36 times. Not bad. Other solid tracks off the Re-Arrange Us album are: "Jigsaw," "My Only Offer," and "The Re-arranger."

Chairlift - Bruises [single] (2008)

Chairlift is from New York and my friend Sameer has a huge crush on the lead singer. Last night, I discovered this tenaciously catchy song on my drive home. "Bruises" starts out totally Feist-like and then continues to develop into a lovely duet. The lyrics are slightly silly yet endearing, "I tried to do headstands for you but every time I fell for you" and “I grabbed some frozen strawberries so I could ice your bruising knees.” It’s the perfect song to sing in the shower - complete with ooohs and doos.