Itch – UK band that has been around the block. I always forget about these guys but they have a new album on the horizon and the new songs sound great.

Mirror – Exciting, jazzy, instrumental stuff from Japan. On, Then, In is the band’s 2007 debut album and it’s an impressive slice of mathy rock.

September Malevolence – The new songs this Swedish band have posted for their upcoming record are tremendous. Post-rock with vocals? Yes indeedy.

White York – New York band that play gruff pop punk rock. Just got the band’s new seven-inch in the mail!

The Read – Cincinnati band that owes more than a few licks to bands like Gang Of Four and Q And Not U. The band’s demo is rough but promising.