Hodgepodge of musical directions

The three CDs today make for a diverse hodgepodge of musical directions, from moody, alternative country rock — Augustana, to catchy accessible Brit Pop — the Ting Tings, and the unmistakable musical vision of acoustic/pop/funk meister Jason Mraz. The one unifying element is how these CDs demonstrate that there is still a lot of creativity going on in today’s music scene, and we don’t always have to subscribe to the mindless formulaic pop that dominates the airwaves.

Augustana — Can’t Love, Can’t Hurt (Sony BMG). Augustana’s second CD is a solidifying of the band’s persona. At times reminiscent of a Coldplay from the American South, and at other moments reminding me of Wilco, the Eagles and Ryan Adams, the CD is a strong effort that bodes well for the band’s future and appeal. It’s piano driven rock with tinges of alternative country that should find mainstream appeal while keeping them a cult favorite. The first single Sweet and Low is an excellent introduction to the kind of music you will find on the CD. Generally midtempo and with strong emo leanings, the 10 songs on the CD leave us wanting more, and that would be my only complaint, how there isn’t enough material. Hey Now is another strong track.

The Ting Tings — We Started Nothing (Sony BMG).  Hailing from Manchester, England, Art School refugees Katie White and Jules de Martino, collectively known as The Ting Tings, are purported to be the next big thing on the British Pop scene. It’s percussion driven garage pop, given a fresh new sheen. Blondie, Toni Basil, the Go-Go’s all come to mind, but sung in an accent that’s more Lily Allen. This is music that is meant to be played loud, while in a party or on a long drive with friends. That’s Not My Name has a cheerleader chant quality to it, and the song and video are irresistible. Already a favorite of the fashionistas, Betsey Johnson and Dolce & Gabanna used their music during NY Fashion Week and tracks have cropped up on Gossip Girl and One Tree Hill.

Jason Mraz — We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things (Atlantic/Warner). A long time favorite of mine, this is Jason’s latest studio produced all-new material CD. The carrier single I’m Yours was previously released on special EP’s, and thanks to the massive appeal it generated, there’s a studio version that exemplifies what we have always known and loved about Jason —  he will always make each performance of a song a little different, tweaking and improvising here and there. I suspect there is a yearning to write songs for an off-Broadway or Broadway production given how some songs flirt with operatic type vocals or rousing choruses. Duets with Colbie Caillat and James Morrison punctuate the CD, but my fave track is The Dynamo of Volition. It’s good to have Jason back!