Tales From the Two Hill Heart and Sibylline Machine

Sweet, uplifting and melancholic, these two discs represent an extraordinary collection of work. Recorded over a year and a half, this third release from The Channel contains epic songs of mystery, longing and compassion. The band maintains their previous alt country stylings throughout both discs but mingling subtle electronics with kazoos, brings out cautious Radiohead friendliness. The real seller is the attenuated vocal harmonies, whispering elegantly instead of proclaiming, think John Lennon, Imagine period. Stand-out tracks include "Rapture, My Captain," "The King of Spain" and "The Deserter." Who needs cable when you've got a good Channel. –SMJ