Trickling In --
I guess most of the record labels shot their wads during the last quarter of 2007 with the boatload of big-named CDs that was unfurled on the public because so far in 2008 it has been a very slow trickle of new releases. I check my mailbox daily for promo and advance CDs and typically all I find are bills. Now while there may be a paucity of star-powered new music at the present moment that leaves my ears open and available to the backlog of CDs by lesser-known groups that have pleased my sensibilities. I think you all might want to check the following two out.

First up is the Boston-based trio Freezepop, who's FUTURE FUTURE FUTURE PERFECT is an interesting and likable 11-track long-player that is best placed within the electro-pop / synth-rock genre. The CD actually came out in September but it's still going strong at the beginning of this new year as the group tours around the country. Compared in part to 1980s groups such as Yaz, Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, and Berlin, Freezepop is indeed a modern-day act, producing music and lyrics that speak to 2008, not 1988. Their songs are currently being used in some of the biggest home video games around, including "Less Talk More Rokk" being featured on Guitar Hero II. The song has ultimately become a huge download sensation: one of the most popular ever on iTunes.

Producing an electrifying underground sound that draws comparisons to The Killers and Franz Ferdinand, the NYC quartet known as Jupiter One is another synth rock band finding a great deal of success in the digital musical world as well as in the home video game market. Their self-titled debut CD came out in August, showcasing the band's colorful and energetic style that has proven popular amongst pop music audiences worldwide. The CD has also spawned the single "Countdown" which has charted well on college radio and been included in EA SPORTS Madden '08 video game. Jupiter One is currently in the midst of a Spring tour which finds them in Chicago on February 15th at The Cubby Bear.

We Like This Stranger Among Us -
The vocal dance music anthem "Stranger In My House" was a huge success several years ago and now the woman who belted out those soaring lyrics, Tamia, is back with a brand new album called BETWEEN FRIENDS. Described as a "an R&B guide to the beauty and dynamics of relationships," the 15-track CD demonstrates Tamia's growing maturity as an artist as well as a woman and it is sure to thrill her fans, both new and old. The single "Me," in its Rosabel Anthem Mix form, was included on the recently released Alegria Universo CD and it is charting well on club DJs' playlists both in the U.S. and overseas. Tamia is back and she's no stranger, but a welcomed friend indeed!

Singles Life
"Just Fine" by Mary J. Blige Retaining the tough and funky bass line of the original album version, the Moto Blanco Remix successfully is a prime example of translating musical excellence from the album to the dance market.

"Self-Religion" by Hardsoul featuring Fierce Ruling Diva Released on U.K. house label Defected Records, the original Club Mix has a raw tech house intensity while the David Penn Remix goes the energetic piano house route.
"Toca's Miracle" by Fragma This old-school prog/trance classic has been updated and the Inpetto Remix is a piece of feel good music.
"Love Like This" by Natasha Bedingfield The original album version is strong and the Johnny Vicious Club Mix is worthy, but the Warehouse Mix is a fierce piece of tribal progressive fare that takes this track to the next level.