Rhett Miller – “The Believer”
Old 97s
singer makes a pop gem of
a sophomore release

Bracket – “Requiem”
Pop punk gets a Beach
Boys-style makeover as
Bracket resurfaces

The Subways – “Young for Eternity”
Pixies-inspired
British trio — two brothers
And their friend Charlotte

Eef Barzelay – “Bitter Honey”
Smart, tuneful, pretty
debut from Clem Snide singer
Coolest name in rock

Two Gallants – “What the Toll Tells”
Urgent and snarling
Like a punk rock Johnny Cash
Named from James Joyce tale

The Lawrence Arms – “Cocktails & Dreams”
B-sides collection
Jawbreaker meets Smoking Popes
Sounds best played real loud

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