Gulag Orkestar

I love that just when you think everything is dull and mundane in music something like Beirut always comes way out of left field to make you come to your senses. Beirut's unique brand of Balkan-styled pop has recently caused Albuquerque native, Zach Condon, to be crowned the new darling of the blogosphere, and for good reason. 'Gulag Orkestar' is filled with the sort of captivating sounds and Eastern Bloc beats that would come from some hipster-driven gypsy caravan. With Condon's deep-voiced crooner vocals, which are somewhat similar to Rufus Wainwright's, he spins his historically inspired tales of the Old World through an assortment of accordions, ukuleles and some tremendous horns that sound very Neutral Milk Hotel in origin. At the tender age of 19, Condon has already released an album worthy of a chair in the cult-status hierarchy, so enjoy this now while the waters are still rather calm.

This is a great album, hands down one of the coolest upcoming bands. If you ever get the chance see them live while they are still less known.