The Key to Success

Originally from Akron, Ohio, this good ol' American blues/rock duo was formed almost 10 years ago and has since rendered eight studio releases. Their past two albums, Attack & Release and Brothers, yielded some undeniable hits for the pair and ascended The Black Keys to contender status.

With their countless commercial successes -- including song features on "Big Love," "Lie to Me," "One Tree Hill," "Entourage," "Sons of Anarchy," "Hung," The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, promos for "Gossip Girl" and "Dexter," and even a Lee's jeans commercial -- I'll bet that you know the Black Keys and you just don't realize it.

If you're looking for a sound reference, their indie, almost amateur garage sound is often compared to another successful rock duo- The White Stripes. Ultimately, though, it's hard to find a sound comparable to that of Dan and Patrick. My top 5? "Your Touch", "Tighten Up," "Strange Times," "Next Girl" and "The Only One."

Thanks, LM.

I Dream of Sara

When I dream, I dream of Sara Jackson-Holman. And it's no wonder. With her delightful use of both staccato melodies and soothing undertones combined with her Adele-esque vocals, this is truly a must-hear album that is sure to become your Autumn soundtrack. Raised in Oregon, her music personifies the picturesque landscapes and natural qualities of her surroundings, and exudes a sound you just can't find on a coastline.

Entitled "When You Dream," her debut album was released this past May and exhibits a sound that is well beyond her 21 years. One of the most popular songs on the album, "Into the Blue" was featured on the season finale of ABC's "Castle" and immediately became the focus of music chat rooms nation-wide. Everyone wants to know more about this young Portland native with her mature style and ageless voice. And while I hesitate to make comparisons, she will undeniably be grouped with the soulful and spunky voices of Adele, A Fine Frenzy, Regina Spector and even Feist.

There is literally no bad song on this album, so it's hard to give my picks. But if I had to narrow it down, I'd say buy these tracks first: "Into the Blue," "When You Dream," "Come Back to Me," "Cellophane" and "California Gold Rush."

Mum's the Word

If you're into that folk-rock, bluegrass sound of the Dropkick Murphys, you'll love Mumford and Sons. This band, led by front-man Marcus Mumford, hail from across the pond and embody that indie rock sound that I find most characteristic of Irish rock, utilizing instruments such as banjos, accordions and mandolins. What's even more unique than the band's sound is the members' ability to assume various roles, switching instruments during live shows in random rotation.

Their debut album Sigh No More was released in the States earlier this year following its release in the UK last fall. Visit their site and give their music a listen. My favorites? "Little Lion Man" and "The Cave."

http://www.mumfordandsons.com/

Oh My, Milow

What's the best part of traveling abroad? Soaking up the culture. And when that culture involves a no-shame attitude toward showcasing the female anatomy, it's even more intriguing. Aside from their Belgian background and their fondness for outwardly sexual, tongue-in-cheek music videos, these two European artists also share a love of 50 Cent, Justin Timberlake and Timbaland. While their version of this track didn't originally thrill me, I am absolutely enthralled by these versions of "Ayo Technology" by Milow and Katerine.

Katerine - Ayo Technology

Lovin' for Lissie

I can't remember how or when I first heard of Lissie, but somehow her music managed its way onto my iPod and became my pleasant surprise as it snuck into rotation during my early morning train ride. Her voice has officially become the theme of my commute, rocking me slowly in and out of consciousness in perfect rythym with the train. Regardless of the specifics of your commute, I guarantee you will find some place in your day in which Lissie's melodies fit your mood. Her sound is organic and honest; her voice is powerful but soothing. I instantly picture this midwest-turned-LA girl laying in a field, surrounded by sunflowers. I am totally aware that this post is quickly turning into my "hippie" moment, but I promise you'll get it when you give her music a listen.

As for my favorites, I am obsessed with "Little Lovin'" and "Everywhere I Go." Check out her MySpace page and let me know what you think of this fresh-faced girl next door...

www.myspace.com/lissiemusic

Temper Trapped

Well I've fallen in love and his name is Dougie... and Jonathon and Lorenzo and Toby-- or as most people refer to them-- The Temper Trap. This alternative rock band from down under is gaining momentum overseas and, without a doubt, headed our way. I always did have a thing for Aussies...

For those of you on "the music scene," you may have seen them this past year at South by Southwest. For all of you film buffs, you may recognize their song "Sweet Disposition" (one of my favorites) from the movie 500 Days of Summer. And for the rest of you- hopefully you watch some type of television in which case you've probably heard them featured on everything from "90210," "Greek" and "The Vampire Diaries" to major Chrysler ad campaigns.

Not ringing a bell? Okay- do yourself a favor and download or youtube some of their stuff. I hear a lot of late 80's/ early 90's influence in their music- sounds like Radiohead, Prince and what reminds me of Q Lazzarus's "Goodbye Horses." Check out their MySpace page and give these tracks a listen. My picks are "Sweet Disposition," "Fader," "Science of Fear," "Love Lost," "Fools" and "Soldier On." Actually... maybe you should just buy the whole Conditions album.

http://www.myspace.com/thetempertrap

Thanks, Lee.