Crash Kings "Crash Kings"

By now you may have heard the Crash Kings song and legitimate hit "Mountain Man". It recently reached #1 on Billboard's Alternative Songs chart. This isn't an entire album of "Mountain Man" sound-alikes but it is better than anticipated. I hear a lot of different musical influences here: The White Stripes, Ben Folds, Weezer, Queen, The Fray, Snow Patrol, Augustana, etc. It may not be the most original material but if you're going to copy styles at least they're taking it from well-liked and successful bands.

Must hear: Mountain Man

(Release Date: 5/26/09)

The Script "The Script"

I would assume the majority of bands I listen to are from the US or some crossovers from England. Let's step out of that status quo for a moment and take a look at an Irish band called The Script. This is their debut album, released in 2008 in the UK, where it made a big splash and eventually led to a US release this year. They make me think of a singer-songwriter like Daniel Powter mixed with a piano-fronted band like The Fray. Some great pop melodies. Nothing groundbreaking but a well-fashioned record.

Must hear: Breakeven (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMbgBpAIskA)

(Release Date: 3/17/09 [US])

The Fray "The Fray"

If you enjoyed their last album then you'll enjoy this one since it's the same color by numbers.

Must hear: You Found Me

(Release Date: 2/3/09)