Two Gallants, 'Two Gallants' (Saddle Creek)

"Electrifying" twosome actually more goofus than gallant.

These San Franciscans became a YouTube sensation last fall when a Houston police officer responded mid-set to a noise complaint with his Taser buzzing. Dude, they're not that loud. On the duo's third album, Adam Stephens strums and picks folkie electric-guitar chords; for embellishment, there's harmonica.

KT Tunstall, 'Drastic Fantastic' (Virgin)

Your aunt's favorite songstress returns in fine form.

With a bit of Chrissie Hynde's swagger and some of Dido's pristine vocal appeal, this strummy Scot created the estro-pop album of '06 with Eye to the Telescope -- heard in countless Hollywood romcoms and TV dramedies.

Motion City Soundtrack, 'Even If It Kills Me' (Epitaph)

Minneapolis pop punkers stay together for the kids.

Being Motion City Soundtrack in 2007 must feel a bit like being Gabrielle Carteris in 1990 -- you know, Andrea from Beverly Hills 90210. You're pushing 30, but you make your dough appealing to 17-year-olds and sometimes acting like them, too, no matter your hairline or marital status.

The Tao of Foo

Aging gracefully with babies in tow, the Foo Fighters gird themselves for a long future together by following a few simple credos.
Photo by Matthias Vriens

YOUR HOME SHOULD BE YOUR TEMPLE

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