Gorillaz "Plastic Beach" (ADVANCE)

This is a much more experimental Gorillaz album. It's not difficult to hear their old sound buried under but the boys play with new production elements and sonic dimensions. The one thing this record really lacks is a radio-friendly single. There is no "Clint Eastwood" or "Feel Good, Inc." to be found here. When I first heard "Stylo" on the radio -- the new single -- I was disappointed. The song is very layered and takes a few listens to fully appreciate. Still, it's not something that will be in heavy rotation. This album may end up being critically lauded but it will never match the critical and commercial success of their previous efforts.

Must hear: Superfast Jellyfish

(Release Date: 3/9/10)

Ted Leo & the Pharmacists "The Brutalist Bricks" (ADVANCE)

TL/Rx are back! Packing as much punk politico into 40 minutes as can fit, Ted Leo has managed to make another in a long line of one-of-a-kind records. Similar to his more recent releases, this album has its ups and downs but more songs hit than miss.

Must hear: Even Heroes Have To Die

(Release Date: 3/9/10)

Two Door Cinema Club "Tourist History" (ADVANCE)

A friend of mine turned me onto these guys in November. She knew I had been going through an electropop phase and thought I would dig TDCC. She was 100% right (thx Summer!)

Their Four Words to Stand On EP showed the considerable talent they have and this, their debut LP, puts it all together. Great beats that keep your head bobbing and great hooks that keep you singing into the night. These guys are young too (I can't find confirmation but pretty sure they're under the legal drinking age) so they only have room to continue to grow.

Must hear: Undercover Martyn

(Release Date: 3/1/10)

Cold War Kids "Behave Yourself EP"

This EP consists of 4 songs that Cold War Kids recorded soon after the release of their last album, Loyalty to Loyalty. These tracks are surprisingly restrained and in complete opposition to their previous "let it all hang out" rockin' efforts.

Must hear: Audience

(Release Date: 1/19/10)