In 2003, I really enjoyed British Sea Power's debut The Decline Of British Sea Power as well as Hot Hot Heat's standout Make Up The Breakdown. Two rather different bands, but both are set to drop their follow-ups on April 5, and both appear to have crafted worthy ones.
Looks like Hot Hot Heat managed to keep their catchy, bouncy, new-wave groove intact as they jumped to a major label. You can download an MP3 of the song "Goodnight, Goodnight" from their new album Elevator or, if you've got a high speed connection, preview the 80's-style (think A-Ha) video in Windows Media or Quicktime format.
British Sea Power appear to have continued their deep, thoughtful trajectory on their new album Open Season, emphasizing their love of nature on the first single "It Ended On An Oily Stage". Check out the video (Windows Media) here.
I've got both albums on pre-order from Amazon. Can't wait 'til they arrive.