Muse "The Resistance"

Less anthemic than their earlier albums, lead single "Uprising" is the closest you will find to a massive headbanging sing-along. Steeped in a more orchestral sound, this album really takes the band in a different direction. And if you don't hear the Queen-influences then you're missing the whole point. I think of this record as an opera. Maybe something like Carmen. Clearly classical but with memorable melodies.

Must hear: United States of Eurasia (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ok0expLH1o)

(Release Date: 9/14/09)

Jay Farrar & Ben Gibbard "One Fast Move or I'm Gone: Kerouac's Big Sur"

Jay Farrar is best known as the guy who left Wilco before they became Wilco (think Pete Best and the Beatles). Ben Gibbard is of course the lead singer of indie veterans Death Cab for Cutie. So what brings these 2 guys together? A mutual love and respect for the works of Jack Kerouac.

As you probably know, Gibbard took a trip to Big Sur where he did some of the songwriting for DCfC's Narrow Stairs (and very specifically "Bixby Canyon Bridge"). This collaboration sounds nothing like that album. It's an acoustic record, with the emphasis clearly being on the lyrics. 90% are direct Kerouac quotes.

Must hear: California Zephyr (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkmdrngHNRs)

(Release Date: 10/20/09)

(500) Days of Summer OST

A quality soundtrack can add emotional depth to characters and scenes in a movie beyond what's just happening on-screen. (500) Days of Summer blends these two allies (audio & visual) beautifully. We are fortunate to be living in a time when there are numerous outstanding movie/soundtrack combos: Garden State, Juno, Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist, etc. And I would be comfortable putting this one in that category as well.

Must hear: "She's Got You High" by Mumm-Ra (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXFXjh9a8lY)

(Release Date: 7/14/09)

Monsters of Folk "Monsters of Folk"

If you thought the Dead Weather were the only new supergroup this year then you were sorely mistaken. Welcome, Monsters of Folk. With names like Conor Oberst, M. Ward, Mike Mogis and Jim James, M.O.F. should have indie scenesters jizzing in their pants.

And, similarly, M.O.F.'s debut is to Indie Rock what the Dead Weather's debut was to Hard Rock. Enough new stuff to keep you excited but nothing you would consider groundbreaking.

Must hear: Say Please (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfcI2HliOIM)

(Release date: 9/22/09)