Spoon "Transference"

Fair disclosure: I saw Britt Daniel & Co. live last year and was not impressed. But their studio stuff is always so good. Their style of art rock just doesn't cut it (for me) in concert, but it's what draws me to their records. I loved Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga but their follow up finds less production and less orchestration. Yet all the experimentation is still there and they keep you guessing throughout.

Must hear: Written in Reverse

(Release Date: 1/19/10)

Motion City Soundtrack "My Dinosaur Life"

Motion City Soundtrack's fourth album and their major label debut. This is how pop punk should sound... a little emo and a lotta fun. Insanely catchy and it's neck and neck with Commit This To Memory as the best of their career. Quit reading and give it a listen.

Must hear: Her Words Destroyed My Planet

(Release Date: 1/19/10)

Beach House "Teen Dream" (ADVANCE)

This is the best album of 2010. Haha, it's an easy call to make this early in the year. But seriously, this is a huge step forward for Beach House. Miles ahead of their last record and guaranteed to bring them more fans and more fame. I think the phrase "dream pop" is a dirty word but this album really has direction and it isn't just a hazy, nonchalant, meandering of the musical landscape.

Must hear: Norway

(Release Date: 1/26/10)

Vampire Weekend "Contra" (ADVANCE)

Let's start off 2010 with a bang... new Vampire Weekend!

What made VW's debut an instant classic? Uptempo, high energy pop songs that introduced us to some African beats and a new genre classified as Indie R&B. Contra is more balanced and carries both bubbly and subtle songs. It's more complex than their debut and it takes some time to digest. That being said, the first song "Horchata" is a good bridge from old VW to new VW and lead single "Cousins" is just a hectic romp that will keep you bopping your head and craving more.

Must hear: Cousins

(Release Date: 1/12/10)