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First Listen

First Listen: Cloud Cult, 'Love'

2.25.13 at 1:00am by Stephen Thompson

The Twin Cities band's ninth album bursts with warmth, whether in spare examinations of faith or in big-hearted explosions of ecstatic celebration. At times, Cloud Cult's music recalls the larger-than-life reverie of The Polyphonic Spree, but the music on Love feels more personal and fragile.

First Listen: Youth Lagoon, 'Wondrous Bughouse'

2.25.13 at 1:00am by Robin Hilton

The one-man band has made one of the most arresting headphone records you'll hear this year. The subjects of Youth Lagoon's second album are weighty, but the music is uplifting, if a bit dysphoric, like an awkward hug for all that is light and beautiful.

First Listen: Waxahatchee, 'Cerulean Salt'

2.25.13 at 1:00am by Otis Hart

Led by singer-songwriter Katie Crutchfield, Waxahatchee addresses teenage flux with seasoned songcraft. On the band's new album, Crutchfield has a way of making dysfunctional relationships sound like something to strive for.

First Listen: Bajofondo, 'Presente'

2.25.13 at 1:00am by Felix Contreras

Argentina's Gustavo Santaolalla and Uruguayan Juan Campodonico mix electronica with tango and folk. Their eight-piece band's new album, Presente, shimmers in a way their previous records didn't, with deceptively simple electronic textures.

First Listen: Shout Out Louds, 'Optica'

2.20.13 at 12:00am by Stephen Thompson

Particularly in its first half, Optica plays like a marvelous '80s mixtape, albeit one with modern production values and a good deal of subtlety. In all their sweet and sunny glory, the Swedish pop band's songs invariably chime and shine.

First Listen: Deathfix, 'Deathfix'

2.19.13 at 7:30pm by Bob Boilen

D.C. musicians Brendan Canty (of Fugazi) and Rich Morel (of Bob Mould's band) make great pop full of unexpected turns on their debut album. Deathfix's melodies and harmonies feel like Big Star or even Queen, but the album also takes a fresh look forward.

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