Smoosh

This band will put a smile on your face. They are just the typical friendly, unpretentious, musically talented indie-pop duo. Except for that they are sisters under the age of 16. This album was created as a duo, but the third sister has recently joined, making this literally fun for the whole family. Music is heavy on the piano, features lush, intelligent vocals with minimalist bass and guitar parts strewn about. A great find!

Apparat & Ellen Allien

This recent collaboration between Apparat and Ellen Allien is hard to place, as you could hear this in a salon, an upscale trendy restaurant, or on a stereo while you’re getting ready. The solid combination of influences puts some enjoyable drumlines, bass, and vocals in the air that ranges in moods from pensive to heartbroken to danceable, and will have you look up toward the end of the album and say something to the point of “Is this still the same disc? This is amazing.” 

Caribou

Caribou caught my eye on the Free Design remix album, and has recaptured my attention with their release Andorra. This release starts of solidly with a quick tempo, and adds layers upon layers of complicated harmonies for a beautiful presentation. Andorra is a tiny undiscovered country in Western Europe, which is a lot like Caribou – independent, sovereign, and I have no clue where they came from. Side note: Microsoft Word recognizes Andorra as a real word.