Julie Watanabe

Adie Camp – As the former frontwoman of rock ensemble The Benjamin Gate and songwriter Jeremy Camp’s wife, Adie has, for better or worse, no lack of ties to the music industry. This Tuesday, her first ever solo album Don’t Wait debuts through BEC Records. Her music is undeniably pop laced with acoustic rock, and despite being lumped into a competitive genre that’s already overpopulated, Adie manages to beat out much of her stake. For an idea of her style think catchy choruses like early Michelle Branch mixed with soft spoken vocal insight reminiscent of Anna Nalick. Check out “Your Way” on her myspace.
Myspace

Saosin – It’s been 3 years and waiting for early Saosin fans. 3 years since Translating The Name went public and the revolution was set in motion. The justifications are endless, but Saosin in your stereo is more important than money in your pocket. DON’T pirate this album! Saosin are the pioneers of this scene (no matter what you’d like to believe) and not buying this album would be of the highest disrespect. Look for the review soon.
Myspace

Michael Schneider

Matt Wertz – Matt has consistently been a favorite of mine since I was introduced to him. His infectious melodies and lyrics that connect with all listeners drive his entire catalogue and especially his new release “Everything In Between”

Cassidy Myers

mewithoutYou – Their new release “Brother, Sister” is absolutely amazing and will be one of the best releases to come out this year.

Rocky Votolato – Put out his amazing new album “Makers” this January. Rocky Votolato is the best solo artist to come out of Seattle.

Valida Prentice

I’m living in Barcelona right now and this past weekend was the big city festival, in honor of Barcelona’s patron Saint Mercedes. As part of the festivities, there was TONS of music, both traditional and contemporary. I think I’ll be drawing on the bands I first listened to at the free shows this weekend for the next few weeks’ recommendations. This week, I’ll recommend to you Canadians The Hidden Cameras who blend an array of string instruments with indie-pop keys & guitars and a poppin’ Spanish electronica quartet called Mendetz.

Reema Desai

The Format – Dog Problems was released in this year in the middle of the summer and I haven’t really stopped listening to it since. The lyrics and subject matter are as personal as songs can possibly be and the variety of instruments and techniques used on this album make it stick out from the crowd as well as add a certain flavor to the album. One can not listen to this album and not respect the evident hard work and sincerity that went into making it. The leap the band took from their previous record, Interventions and Lullabies to Dog Problems is truely phenomenal. This is easily one of if not the most witty and catchy pop albums of the year.

(On a side note, they also have the coolest website ever.)