Animal Collective - Strawberry Jam

This has quickly become my favorite Animal Collective album. It's easily their most pop-influenced record.

1. Peacebone

2. Unsolved Mysteries

3. Chores

4. For Reverend Green

5. Fireworks

6. #1

7. Winter Wonder Land

8. Cuckoo Cuckoo

9. Derek

Total Listening Time - 43 Minutes

Recommended Spins Before It Hits You - 4

Must-hear tracks - For Reverend Green, Fireworks, Cuckoo Cuckoo

Black Kids - Wizard of Ahhs

2007
Self-Released
Wide-Eyed Indie Rock

1. Hit the Heartbreaks - 3:36
2. I'm Not Gonna Teach You - 3:32
3. Hurricane Jane - 4:26
4. I've Underestimated My Charm (Again) - 3:32

Very rarely does a band hit a homerun with their first release. The potential is there for many, however most times there are a few stumbles along the way to greatness. Black Kids seem to have leaped every trip-wire laid in there way, and this four-song EP exemplifies greatness. While still retaining a youthful, wide-eyed charm, the buzzing organs, and shout-along vocals remind one of a young, less world-conscious Arcade Fire. All four songs on the album are standouts, and can be downloaded entirely for free on the band's myspace page, located at www.myspace.com/blackkidsrock

Must Hear Tracks - I'm Not Gonna Teach You, Hurricane Jane