Bands of the Month - Reviewed by Deborah Singer

Who: Malbec

What: Simple music with catchy lyrics and a mainstream pop/rock sound.

On the Web: malbectheband.com

Sounds Like: Augustana and The Fray

Stand Out Single: “Solstice”

Grade: B+

Who: Melanie Horsnell

What: She’s an all-around talented artist. Even with a soft voice, her music manages to capture your attention.

On the Web: melaniehorsnell.com

Sounds Like: A Fine Frenzy and KT Tunstall

Stand Out Single: “I Just Want Some Love”

Grade: A

Who: Kyle Mann Combo

What: A great combination of jazz and rock with a truly unique sound.

On the Web: kylemanncombo.com

Sounds Like: A rock version of Jamie Cullum

Stand Out Single: “Trials” (but they have another great song called “Lyrical Rhapsody for the Cell Phone Abusers.”)

Grade: B+

Who: Shannon Corey

What: Really good café music that Starbucks would sell. She’s a very talented pianist and lyricist.

On the Web: shannoncorey.com

Sounds Like: Regina Spektor and Tori Amos

Stand Out Single: “Sunday Morning”

Grade: A-

Who: Andrew Marks

What: A singer-songwriter that creates heartfelt lyrics that really make you stop and listen.

On the Web: andrewmarksmusic.com

Sounds Like: John Mayer and James Blunt

Stand Out Single: “Breakdown”

Grade: A