Soundtrack Provided by Pandora

Pandora.com and the music genome project is starting to revolutionize music the way iTunes did a few years ago and how the WalkMan did before that. You type in an artist you like and it creates a station featuring similar artists. Sometimes the suggestions are on point...sometimes not so much. Either way, it will expose you to tons of new artists you've probably never heard of. Here are a couple of artists/bands that I have recently been turned on to via Pandora.

MGMT
Though the album "Oracular spectacular" has a tendency to feel a little like an 80s acid trip, the beats are infectious and you find yourself secretly longing for a synthesizer of your own.
Best song: "Kids"

James Morrison
No, I'm not talking about the famed lead singer for The Doors. James Morrison is a British import that is making his way across the pond. With mainstream appeal and a featured appearance on Jason Mraz's latest album, James Morrison is certainly one to watch.
Best Song: "Under the Influence"

MuteMath
This New Orleans based band really rocks out on their self-titled album, and not in the faux 'Nickelback' kind of way. The band successfully blends electronica with rock and emo. Good stuff!
Best song: "Typical"

Sufjan Stevens
The Michigan native's soothing voice paired with simple rhythms and a seemingly full orchestra and choir behind him (on some tracks) make his music is the perfect soundtrack for a road trip. Maybe that's why they used it in Little Miss Sunshine.
Best Song: "Chicago"

Turin Brakes
Another British import, this duo is tagged as "modern folk pop." The vocals at times can be a little purposefully whiney, but for the most part "Ether Song" is a great album that you will be singing long after you hear it.
Best song: "Pain Killer"