Four Songs to Listen to Forthwith - 05/23/10

I'm having fun writing about this music. Like a lot of fun, way more than I thought I would. Just the simple thought and analysis of my own listening has been supremely satisfying. It's great to be able to share with others, even if they are imaginary. A band called Free Energy just released an album at the beginning of this month. With a name like free energy you may expect a techno band or some crazy new synth pop dubstep, but you'd be wrong... again. Free Energy is a great indie alternative band and aren't for dancing to. They've got good stuff none the less and are worth some time listening to, over and over. Here's Free Energy - Free Energy to get you started.

Crystal Castles are an obscure lynch pin for anyone interested in synth pop. They are creative, original and always one step ahead of their fans. This album is no different, pushing their style to be more mature while maintaining the grease and eeriness that got them this far. Hear's a pro tip when you're looking for good songs from entire albums. Pay special attention to tracks 2 thru 4. That's where the good stuff is. For this album they put both singles up top at 2 and 3, track for, Baptism wasn't a single but is my favorite. Not that it matters really, they're not headed to the radio anytime soon... which is a good thing btw.

I'm a big fan of Jem. It's very surprising that she isn't some crazy run away success instead of chicks like Lady Gaga and Justin Beiber. She's got a fantastic unique voice, she sings with incredible intensity, her lyrics are poetic and meaningful, she weaves her songs with melody and consonance. It's just good good stuff all around. Here's Jem - Missing You.

There were many bands that separated the 103.3 the Edge in my Buffalo from the far superior 102.1 the Edge in Toronto. For me, Tea Party really stood out for me because they are a hard rocking band with an enormous array for different musical instruments coming together. The song Walking Wounded is moody and complicated. It is absolutely packed with bits that could have been spread among half a dozen songs and still felt complete. I hope it's a treat to those that haven't heard it in a few years.