MP3: Matthew Dear- Don’t Go This Way (February 20th, RCRD LBL)
Electronic music that dabbles in pop and dissonance with Depeche Mode-like vocals. This track was recorded for, but missed the cut on last year’s frequently recommended Asa Breed.

MP3: These United States- First Sight from A Picture of the Three of Us at the Gate to the Garden of Eden (March 8th, United Interests)
Without a defined cast, These United States has traveled all over the US and Europe in the last two years with groups like Califone and Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin. This hi-fi track is the indie folk creation of band-fixture, Jesse Elliott.

MP3: Frightened Rabbit- The Modern Leper from The Midnight Organ Fight (April 14th, FatCat)
Scottish, folk-tinged indie. Familiar pop qualities conjure up memories of 90’s, US college rock greats, but the soul is all their own.

MP3: Ben Kamen- clouds and snow from dreams EP (Out now, Self released)
Sparse, quiet folk that cuts to the quick. You can grab the whole EP for free at his website. With a donation towards a physical disc, Mr. Kamen will even mail a copy to you. Delicate, hand painted artwork included, of course…

MP3: The Child Ballads- Cheekbone Hollows from Cheekbone Hollows (Pop. 1/2 Life) (April 15th, Gypsy Eyes Records)
Stuart Lupton, formerly of Jonathan Fire*Eater, builds on characteristics of 70s rock for his debut. Lo-fi, a bit psychedelic, ultimately accessible. Certainly for fans of Lou Reed.

MP3: Boris- Statement from Smile (April 29th, Southern Lord)
Snarling guitars and distortion from Japan’s premiere experimental rock trio. But get this: it’s balls to the wall with melody.

And now for this week’s Smorgasbord Sundae Wafer…

MP3: Singer- Dumb Smoke from Unhistories (March 25th, Drag City)
Former members of Chicago avant-rock act U.S. Maple and 90 Men come together for a mess that we’re not sure we can accurately describe. We remember digging U.S. Maple. This track certainly starts like one of their methodic,
intricate works… until they lose me with falsetto reminiscent of a dying cat. Maybe we just don’t get it? Reserving judgment on these locals until I hear the full album.