Snow Patrol has created a great second album chock full of songs you wish became #1 hits. In fact, three tracks from Eyes Open are vying for the same success the band experienced with “Run” on their debut album. “You’re All I Have” isn’t a bad choice for a first single, although many of the other tracks outshine it. The forceful “Make This Go On Forever” and “Open Your Eyes” will sweep listeners up, balanced by quieter tracks such as “Finish Line” or “You Could Be Happy” with the twinkle of a music box in the background. “Chasing Cars” is one of the better tracks with Lightbody’s solo vocals, and the entire album contains tunes aimed straight fro the heart of their fans. The sound of the band has grown considerably larger and broader than Final Straw, as well as more compelling and catchier. This approach seems to work for them, and for now, Snow Patrol seems to be on the verge of something undeniably big.

Track List

Kate Nash, a British singer and talented instrumentalist, has made a very impressive debut with Made of Bricks. Her collection of pop songs is dynamic and confident and highlights Nash’s sultry voice. Tracks such as “Dickhead” feature a powerful delivery that is reminiscent of Lily Allen. The playful piano tune “Skeleton Song” and the swooning “Birds” will remind you of creative female artists such as Regina Spektor and Fiona Apple. However, the highlight of the entire album has to be “Bricks.” This catchy track infused with electronica was responsible for Nash’s sudden rise to fame in the UK, and it highlights her sense of melody and biting wit.

Track List

Life in Cartoon Motion, the debut album of Mika, a 22-year-old Brit, is as eclectic as you are going to hear. Flamboyant, sensational and original are three other adjectives that will probably come to mind after hearing some of the songs. Mika wrote and produced every one of the tracks on this pop album which combine euphoric melodies with darker undertones. Bubbly melodramas mix with tales of loss, love, happiness, hope and abandonment. However, one common thread links them all – a unique imagination and skilled pop craftsmanship. Mika is much more than a pretty-boy singer; tracks such as “Relax and Take It Easy,” “Billy Brown,” “Grace Kelly” and “Lollipop” showcase the singer’s incredible way with words and are album highlights. Slightly cheesy and high camp, the songs on the album are also fun and creative with thought-provoking lyrics. You’ll find yourself singing along with Mika’s falsetto, theatrical voice!

Track List