Arctic Monkeys "Humbug"

I was disappointed by Arctic Monkeys' last effort so I wasn't sure what to expect from this one. It sounds different from their accustomed style so it's not fair to compare it against their previous work. In reality, this album sounds much more similar to Queens of the Stone Age. Unsurprisingly, Josh Homme was a co-producer on the album. Not only do the riffs sound like QOTSA but the lead singer seems to have taken his queues from the same. It wouldn't be a bad QOTSA album but it's definitely a good Arctic Monkeys album. It still has the same dirty rock sound that was so memorable from their debut.

Must hear: Dangerous Animals (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0x7DO3ytv9M)

(Release Date: 8/19/09)

Pete Yorn & Scarlett Johansson "Break Up"

Not that anyone was expecting a Robert Plant/Allison Krauss type effort but this album disappoints. Scarlett is nothing more than a hood ornament; a PR move. And while we're on the subject, what is Scarlett using to record her vocals? It sounds like when I used to try and record songs off the radio onto a cassette tape. Maybe you'll take a couple songs away but this album is forgettable.

Must hear: Relator (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRtydnIycCY)

(Release date: 9/15/09)

Owl City "Ocean Eyes"

I don't know if it's the fun music, light lyrics, or just the vocals of Adam Young but this album makes me feel happy. It's not a forced happiness -- like a sugary sweet teen pop song -- rather it's a confidence that everything is all right. Musically, the album sounds like the Postal Service. Which is interesting because Ben Gibbard adds lyrics and turns it into a break up album, yet Adam Young adds lyrics and makes it a get together album.

Must hear: Fireflies (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aI4JLa0hbUw)

(Release Date: 7/14/09)

Wild Light "Adult Nights"

Formed in my home state of New Hampshire, the guys of Wild Light actually went to high school with the lead singer of the Arcade Fire. While you can hear some similarities in their music, Wild Light reminds me more of Matt Pond PA. This record shows promise, specifically, "California On My Mind". If they could make a whole album of songs of that quality, these guys could be the next indie darlings.

Must hear: California On My Mind (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRJmfjZ2JmE)

(Release Date: 3/3/09)

Modest Mouse "No One's First And You're Next (EP)"

This Modest Mouse effort didn't take very much, well, effort. It consists of 8 unreleased tracks and B-sides from their previous 2 albums. If you're a fan of the band then you will like these songs. They're all fully mixed so don't worry about having to listen to lo-fi demos or anything. An overall enjoyable group of songs.

Must hear: Satellite Skin

(Release date: 8/4/09)

Boys Like Girls "Love Drunk"

The much anticipated follow up to their breakthrough debut album, Boys Like Girls do not disappoint. They bring back all your favorites -- uptempo pop punk and fun lyrical wordplay -- and take the next step in their musical progression. I am impressed with this album; the boys didn't wilt under all the success (and pressure) that their last album brought them. Oh, and if you are searching for this album's "Thunder", look no further than their collaboration with Taylor Swift.

Must hear: Love Drunk

(Release Date:9/8/09)