Artist: Say Hi

Say Hi (formerly known as Say Hi to Your Mom) is probably one of the most underrated bands of all time. Eric Elbogen, the founder of Say Hi, writes songs that have a quirky feel, but not the "I just want to be different" kind of quirky; his songs have a playful yet consistent feel with conscious musicality. The songs have similar personalities, in the sense that you can tell what a Say Hi song sounds like, but they're different enough to make you keep going back for more.

Get prepared for instant addiction:
1. Sweet Sweet Heartkiller (insanely catchy, but not in cheesy way)
"and everything's good, and everything's fine, and everything's bitter like sweet things should be." [one of my favorite lines]
2. Hooplas Involving Circus Tracks (nice contrast of distorted guitars and pure electronic drumbeats)
3. Oboes Bleet And Triangles Tink (great use of muted strings and soft drums throughout)

You can listen to some of Say Hi's songs on his myspace.

Artist: Stars

Adorned in an atmosphere reminiscent of black and white photographs, Stars' style is elegant and soothing, while musically captivating. Their songs are composed of a delicate balance of electric and acoustic, giving their melodies a contemporary texture while inducing a feeling of lingering nostalgia.

Three songs to start with:

1. Your Ex Lover is Dead (listen for the beautiful blend of various instruments throughout)

2. Midnight Coward (fast paced and soothingly invigorating)

3. In Our Bedroom After The War (flowing piano, smooth and sometimes percussive strings, soft drums)

You can listen to them on their myspace page.