One of the most difficult things about becoming an emeritus of sputnik is discovering amazing new artists and lacking any time whatsoever to communicate that interest to others who care about music. Since “graduating” from sputnik, or “becoming part of the force” (or whatever silly analogy makes sense to you), music has become an increasingly intimate thing to me. I don’t spend as much time searching for new artists, analyzing them, and especially writing about them. But when I encounter something I have a true admiration for, I typically find myself desperately striving to achieve five hours of sleep while finishing up lesson plans, grading papers, planning a wedding, and performing household duties. And all so I can wake up and go to work exhausted again. Needless to say, it’s a busy time for me and I regret that I don’t have ample time to review everything that I feel passionate about (i.e. Snowmine’s new record Dialects, which I heartily recommend to all fans of atmospheric alt/indie). So, in lieu of two reviews that I really want to write but have absolutely no time to, I present you with the first of what may be a continuing string of brief passages concerning artists and new albums that I have found to be exceptional.

Run River North – Run River North

At first I wasn’t sure what to make of this band – they clearly have a knack for accessible songwriting akin to Of Monsters and Men, but they aren’t nearly as commercial-sounding and there’s something endearing about their entire approach. Their lyrics are different but they make sense and clearly have meaning. They have more energy and take the kinds of chances you’d expect from a new band creating their debut. It just has a certain level of passion and energy. Think of a middle ground between the aforementioned band and Fleet Foxes, and you’d probably find these guys.

Priscilla Ahn – This Is Where We Are

This is just a case of a girl having one of the most ridiculously angelic voices I have ever heard. She has amazing tune sense and the ability to adapt it to a wide array of musical styles. Her most recent album takes on more of an electronic, danceable vibe – and she doesn’t miss a beat. “This Is Where We Are” isn’t her debut album, but if you haven’t heard of her yet I suggest these songs as a good starting point.