Gary Go – Open Arms (Michael Gray Remix)
Comment: Probably one of the most uplifting club remixes to hit top clubs across Europe. Singer/Songwriter Gary Go offers his best impression of Sting on vocal, while DJ Gray melds electro-style house beats over the chorus to have you rock and rave your way onto the dance-floor for hours. Grade: A+
Pilot Speed – Please Put the Phone Down
Comment: The Toronto-based foursome conjures up memories of the Flaming Lips with this California beach neopsychedelic tune, featuring electronic distortion and electric piano soundscapes. The track’s ultra-catchy chorus makes it radio-friendly and a must-have for one’s road trip. Grade: B
Kasabian – Underdog
Comment: The Manchester-club scene may have received an awakening with this vibrant return of Brit Rock that features a great mix of Ian Brown-esque vocals, brooding guitar imploding chords and thunderous bass drums. While we wait for the Stone Roses resurrection, perhaps this single is the next big alternative. Grade: B+
The Submarines – You, Me & The Bourgeoisie
Comment: It’s unfair! Now I know why the iPod has brand superiority over other alternatives on the market. Creative advertising is important in luring in new customers. This seductive guitar rock ballad features luscious lead vocals and a Beatles-esque drum and percussion backbeat that’s worthy of top consideration on your new iTunes playlist. The Corporate tycoons at Apple love it too. They have used it repeatedly on iPhone 3G commercials in 2009. Grade: A-
Modest Mouse – Satellite Skin
Comment: The Seattle-based band has been incognito for way too long. No worries. The group returns by unveiling a terrific new alternative country-rock single that features highly charged vocals from Issac Broc and the signature guitar rhythms from Johnny Marr (formally of The Smiths). This latest effort reminds us that patience is indeed a virtue. Grade: A
In The Spotlight: Modest Mouse-Satellite Skin (Live)
