Andrea Mixes it up with a Music Review... and a Question

I thought I'd segue into another Teen Summer Reading Programme Poll with a CD review...

Thom Yorke: Eraser
The ongoing debate in my household that has raged on for more than a decade is: Radiohead up to O.K. Computer, or Radiohead, O.K. Computer and beyond. I personally think Radiohead hit their peak with Kid A, which would rank as one of my favourite records, probably of all time, whereas my husband seems to feel that that record is a disappointment and a betrayal of the band's potential. I suspect that Thom Yorke's independent record will likely appeal more to those of us in the Kid A camp. I thought it was melodic, and atmospheric and just plain good, even if I am biased by years of devotion to Radiohead. My Rating: ****/5

My CD related question - Catherine has posted this request before, but I am in the process of upgrading the CD collection in the teen department, and have to submit my list by next week. If anyone has any recommendations (can be titles that you know to be popular with teens, or something you think is brilliant) please send forth artist and CD title information by commenting on this post.

My Top Five CDs in Heaviest Rotation for July - my rather impressionistic reviews

1. Sufjan Stevens - Avalanche
Every time I hear his music, I feel like I need to be playing guitar at a campsite.

2. Young & Sexy - Panic When You Find It
This band is a little-know duet from Vancouver, who I desperately want to find success. This CD is pleasantly versitle and best described as "charming".

3. Neko Case - Fox Confessor Brings the Flood
One of my celebrity moments: I saw Neko Case in concert serveral years ago, and I bought one of her EPs from her between acts. I said "Great set. I love your hair". She said "thanks." She has an extraordinary voice. Her music is teetering on the bring of being country - really almost blue grass, which I know is the kiss of death for teens (actually, most people I think) but if you ever want to hear someone sing and REALLY mean it, she's a great example of a passionate, gifted singer/songwriter.

4. Final Fantasy - Has a Good Home
A one-man act from TO. His music is so neat. He's a violinist who has applied his talent towards making dreamy, kind of ethereal music - it sounds to me like an interesting combination of historical and futuristic.

5. The National - Alligator
I love this band mainly for the singer's voice - it's so rich. He sounds like he'd be a very glamourous person. I love this entire CD, but have been known to drive home to Toronto after work with track 6 on repeat several days in a row. If there are any Interpol fans out there, I think you could draw a comparison.

Looking forward to your picks, Andrea.