1. The March – Astra Heights

I’m digging the title of this song, because it describes exactly what’s going on in the music. A driven, heavy guitar is the perfect accompaniment for a long, arduous march down the road that you’re trying to liven up a bit.

While Astra Heights’ sound is classic Brit rock, they are apparently a bunch of Hispanic brothers with one half-Greek/half-Chinese honorary brother in the mix. They pay homage extremely well, sounding a bit like a mellowed out Fratellis. There’s a lot to like here: soaring vocals, crisp harmonies, and solid production.

My initial thought on hearing their sound was that it was a bit muddled. I wanted it to go fully dirty and gritty, or a bit more glam and polished. But it grew on me after a few listens. I’d watch out for these guys. I have a sneaking suspicion they are going to be huge.

Grab their free single, and check out their full album here for an extremely reasonable $5.99.

2. Ashley Shepherd - Takin' Off This Pain

Listen to Ashley's song and then guess her age. Go on. I'll wait.

You back? Okay. I bet you never guessed that the girl with that enormous, mature voice is only 21 years old. Yup, and she's as cute as a little button too.

I'm always a fan of young talented people. She's obviously a good musician, and I think she'll be big on the country circuit. She's already getting some radio play, and I say good for her.

But, there's a weird dichotomy created by her appearance, her voice, and the song lyrics. She looks like an adorable girl-next-door. Very sweet and innocent. But with her big, adult voice and her lyrics, it's almost like RCA is trying to market her as older than she actually is.

I mean, she's already holding a beer in one hand and being disillusioned with her marriage with the other? At 21? Really?

Despite my confusion, and a sometimes harsh timbre to her voice like she's pushing it too hard, I like Ashton Shepherd. She's newly signed, and her album isn't yet, so grab her single and consider yourself lucky to have gotten a preview.