"Method reviewing: Become the album. Live as an LP for a year before you write about it. The same sort of romances, break ups & downs, etc." -Damien Jurado (discovered by Margot the Red)

The Sounds- Something to Die For- New Wave electro rock with a female lead who conveys a punk rock attitude. This album is a bit of a throwback to late 80s-early 90s rock, and a nice alternative to the softer indie rock currently trending. Check out “Better Off Dead,” “It’s So Easy,” and “Something to Die For.” RIYL: The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Blondie

The Strokes - Angles- This album has been in the works for two years, and the end result is damn good. The guitar riffs are modern and catchy, and Julian Casablancas’ vocals are the standard for indie rock. “Machu Picchu” is an awesome start and songs like “Two Kinds of Happiness” and “Taken For a Fool” keep up the pace. RIYL: Arcade Fire, The Killers, Phoenix

Austra- Beat and Pulse- An interesting mix of synthesizers and female vocals reminiscent of Florence Welch or Deborah Harry. It’s got a darker more ethereal sound, so RIYL Depeche Mode, Amy Lee.

Shinobi Ninja- Rock Hood - An interesting mix of hip-hop, rock, and pop that provides a wide range of perspectives coming from a bunch of different music producers. “Brooklyn to Babylon”is probably my favorite on the album, as more of a hip-hop track. Around track 5 it turns into a hard rock album with hip-hop sampling until “Black Dreams” where it brings a rock-backed reggae. It’s kind of like going to six concerts playing at once in the same venue. Figure it out.

Lykke Li- Wounded Rhymes - A retro sound reminiscent of the 60’s with echo-y vocals and plenty of earthy percussion. The sound goes from “I Follow Rivers,” a well-produced track with a memorable chorus to “Unrequited Love,” which fits into classic country. RIYL: Duffy, Dusty Springfield

The Joy Formidable- The Big Roar- Grungy arena rock perfect for listening to while driving around with your windows down. “Don’t Want to See You Like This” brings in a whole lot of power and is quickly followed by “Austere” which also commands your attention. The album then turns to an empowered ballad, “A Heavy Abacus.” I was really impressed with the quality of the album and the ferocity each song brings in, so I recommend you check it out. RIYL: Smashing Pumpkins, The Pixies