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Listen Up!: The Singles Roundup - Feb 23, 2007

In the words of hip-hop writer Jeff Chang, these songs "can't stop, won't stop," so don your headphones and turn up the dial...

Stephen Marley - "Hey Baby"
Built around a sweet little four-note repetition and a big back beat, Stephen Marley and Mos Def team for a slow groove about growin' up.

The Bees (US) - "Hard Luck Tom"
Wilco meets the Beach Boys in this jaunty little tune that combines clear-eyed vocal harmonies with jangly guitars and a jaunty little piano line--it's misanthropic California dreamin'.

Blonde Redhead - "23"
Kicking off with the grandiose hush of the New Order-era, BR promptly launch into space on a tight rein, with brainwashing breathy vocals, skittery drums, and the inevitable (irresistible) crescendo.

David Vandervelde - "Jacket"
We're not sure how Vandervelde pulls off the Bowie-style vocal histronics, but we have to hand it to him—this is a pop gem you'll like in spite of yourself.

Kings of Leon - "On Call"
The Followill boys are back with another ragged Southern rocker that features more twists and turns than a Tennessee Williams play.

Western States Motel - "Powerlines"
Sporting some Shins-like backing vocals and soft-spoken guitar shredding, WSM's "Powerlines" creeps up on you for a pleasant little dream-pop shock.

Nas - "Can't Forget about You" feat. Chrisette Michele
Let's be real, we just love the vintage sound of vocalist Chrisette Michele, and Nas' flow is just... so on this track that's more 'diamonds are forever' than shiny new bling.

Modest Mouse - "Dashboard"
MM go almost disco on this giddily epic track, crowded with catchy guitar riffs, a rousing horn section, and strings.

Natasha - "So Sick" feat. Clipse
Natasha's high, thin vocals can't yet rival those of her model (Beyoncé, natch) but backed by Clipse's ever-smart rapping, she's looking promising.

- Jocelyn K. Glei
02.23.07

Click here to read last week's installment of Listen Up!