Phoenix

I'll be the first to admit: when it comes to the French I don't usually look to them for good music bands. Some many have know Air and Daft Punk as well as the progressive death mental rock band Gojira but there it ends for me and I suspect a fair few others.

Enter Phoenix. These guys are Grammy nominated so perhaps would a look into. Their debut album United was released in 200o but they remained relatively unknown - well at least to me. It's hasn't been until the release of Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix that I really began to sit up and take notice. Embarrassingly, this is their 4th studio album - I hope there are others out there that have neglected them until now just so I don't feel quite so ridiculous. In fact, with the Grammys only just recognizing these guys in the last year I'd say I wasn't alone.

Anyway, it's a good album. A classical theme runs through it starting with the first track Lisztomania, a reference to the composer Liszt. Wagner and Mozart make appearances throughout the album also, so keep your eyes and ears peeled.
Catchy guitar riffs and a general feel good, chirpy beat keeps this album punching along in a pleasing fashion. Standouts include 'Lisztomania' and '1901' and probably 'Countdown', also.

It may not be your thing but give it a go it may brighten your day.
~SouthernHeart

Listening to: Phoenix - 1901