I'd add 'The Walkmen' to that list.

Secondly, Franz Ferdinand has to be THE most overrated album of the year, the lavish lauding from both UK and US press is embarrassingly obscene for such a bland, economically sounding album: all the tracks blend indistinguishably together creating---in my mind---not one note worthy or interesting track.

Also the Ambulance LTD, though not the most astonishing, is pretty good for their 'dream pop' sensibilities and alludes to something greater, more original over time.

I agree with you. However, most of my friends disagree with me.

So, what can you do?

I bought both the Walkmen and Franz Ferdinand CDs and like the Franz CD much better even though it is overrated.

The Walkmen CD, with the exception of The Rat, sounds like a bunch of bland noise to me. I have only had it a few days though, so maybe it will grow on me.

They're great. I remember hearing them for the 1st time on the new 103.1 here in LA.

Seems like the Rogue Waves might catch a wave since their re-issue of their newest album. I think people here would like The Like Young featring members of Wolfie. Catchy Weezer-esque pop. I think the indie rock version of Ace of Base, Tilly and the Wall should catch on. They are on Conor Oberst's new label Team Love, the guy from Bright Eyes. The YYYs album is old news and not as good as their first EP. The Shins' 2nd album is awful, I think and I prefer the first one but Subpop was making better indiepop with Velocity Girl and Zumapno (featuring future New Pornographer Carl Newman). I like the Spoozys but for crazier J-Pop action, listen to the Polysics. They have a few domestic releases hear on punk impring Asian Man. I also dig the Boredoms from Japan along for maybe a scarier experiance. They did the soundtrack to Ichi the Killer. Fun!

Would I be the only to admit to being disappointed with the new Modest Mouse disc? I think I was expecting something else. I love their single... it's right up my alley. But then I get to around track 4 and I'm thinking it's a Pixies outtake and from there it's a tad bit boring. I've only given it two spins so I'm sure more is needed to sink in.

You do realize that the Boredoms have a new album coming out in the fall? But it cost like 3,000 some Yen to get it.

I think the Yeah Yeah Yeahs album gets better the more you listen to it. When I first heard it, I thought it was okay, but it grows on you w/ each additional listen.

Modest Mouse's new one was alright, but nowhere near as good as some of their previous work.

Death Cab's new album is great, imo. I keep meaning to check out the Postal Service album, but I just haven't gotten around to it yet.

Someone mentioned Interpol and all I can say is that Turn On The Bright Lights is my favorite purchase from the last year or so. I think my wife is actually starting to get sick of hearing it.

I was a bit underwhelmed at first, but it quickly grew on me. After several more listenings I think its right up there with their earlier works.

And as others have said, the Postal Service disc is excellent. I'm not a very big Death Cab for Cutie fan, so I think Postal Service is much better than death cab is.

^^^

I'm not going to let this one die just yet.

The best debut album I've heard this year. It took a while, but I'm starting to get really into this disc.

My brother bought me The Killers this last weekend and i'm really enjoying it.

It's amazing to go to Record stores and/Or Target and see tons of great new music from new and old bands for cheap. I even saw a few Avril dressed teens buying the new Sonic Youth Album.

I wonder how long this will last? I'm hoping the momentum doesn't wain anytime soon.

It also seems like pop culture is more welcoming to music of more substance W/the usual pop. Over the last couple of years TV shows like The OC, and Gilmore Girls and films like School Of Rock are teaching younger people what good music should really sound like, and we reap the benefits of the record companies cashing in on it. Maybe i'm not making sense, but it's something to think about. Just thought i'd rant before work.