The Constellations "Southern Gothic"

The Constellations self-released this album in 2008 but now that they have latched on with a major label they are getting a proper debut. Other than a wider marketing campaign, the only difference from their self-issued version is the addition of the song "Weighing Me Down" in lieu of "Remurder is a Lovemix".

These guys play with a lot of different sounds and genres from rock to hip-hop to soul to electronic. Very eclectic and yet it all feels like it fits together. And that's no small task.

The band has set out to make a record about their hometown Atlanta. It's more The Hold Steady (bar rock) than it is Outkast (ATLiens) but there is definitely something here to build on. It's singable, it's danceable, it's all-around enjoyable.

Must hear: Felicia

(Release Date: 6/22/10)

The Roots "How I Got Over" (ADVANCE)

So Questlove has been blowing up my Twitter stream about his new album 'HIGO' so I had to give it a listen. I have ZERO history with The Roots, other than knowing they are one of the pioneers of Hip-Hop and R&B and that their music is a fusion of Funk, Soul, and Jazz. It's a delicate balance yet they manage it incredibly well.

The music on this album is light enough to allow you to pay attention to the rhymes being dropped over it but simultaneously captivating enough to entertain you fully during the transitions. It's really incredible to listen to a band who is both politically charged and technically sound. The fact that they are great musicians just adds to their message.

Must hear: How I Got Over

(Release Date: 6/22/10)