The location is specific but the stories are universal.

The film's retro affectations permeate every aspect of the soundtrack.

You may be as surprised as I was at this transplanted Aussie's California sunshine-inspired tracks.

"It turns out I had mistakenly sent the text directly to Britt Daniels, because those two B names were right next to each other."

"Why then," you ask, "are you reviewing this CD, smart guy? Aren't you the guy in charge of the comic book section or something?"

Shonen Knife's bubblegum punk attack is still very much in full effect from the get-go.

In and Out of Control is a solid effort by The Raveonettes and one of their best records to date.

Ryan Jarman really stretches his voice on this offering. It's still recognizable, but he's singing more, reaching new ranges, holding notes longer.

On the whole, this is a mellow one, kids; Vehicles and Animals is a long, long time ago, and not one we'll be soon revisiting.

It's an enjoyable ride (while it lasts), full of jangly, upbeat beats.

Beginnings like this were a rare find around these parts, 'cause the tendency was for the talent to leave the nest and head for the coasts ASAP.

From the first song to the tenth, these are richly layered, deeply affecting numbers; listening, you often feel the confidante to a close friend.

That isn't to say that this is an all-time classic like Violent Femmes or Hallowed Ground: the peaks aren't nearly that high, but the complete lack of valleys is cause for celebration.

Their 2006 self-titled full-length debut sold over 10,000 copies in its first month...without the promotion or distribution of a major label.

Little time is wasted on Sissy Wish's Beauties Never Die; the album zips by in a flash, and it has a confidence in both the performance and production that gives it real muscle.

Don't feel ashamed if you're inclined to hit the "repeat" button and listen to the whole disc all over again; this is one that stands up to repeated (and repeated) listens.

The growth and maturation of his talents shine on "Holding Out," the second track on the set, a piano-based tune Joe Jackson could have released in his prime.

Taken together, Skyscraper Crow is a shared, intimate experience.

If you think you're in for the typical indie-rock experience, you've got a bit to learn.