Hotspur has been through several metamorphoses of sound, but have finally settled on what they enjoy playing the most- loud, fast, and fun rock music that has a real kick. "Goodbye, Goodbye" is a radio-ready track that will pull you in with its crunchy guitars and singer Joe Mach's strong vocal presence. The verse suggests metal influences, but transforms into a more mainstream rock sound without taking the edge off of the guitars . Penned on the theme of an unexpected bad break-up, this track is on their debut album "Beta," released earlier this month. See them live at T.T. Reynolds on September 16.

Hotspur - "Goodbye, Goodbye"

Running With Scissors is bringing a new sound to the local scene, playing an experimental and progressive vibe that finds the band on a track similar to that of The Mars Volta or Incubus. Tempo changes, stylistic changes, and no shortage of fun guitar effects make this song interesting and new at every turn, yet still cohesive. Aaron Barr's vocals showcase a wide vocal range as he hits those high notes with such strength, proving his vocal lines to be just as melodic as the band's intricate guitar solos. Don't miss their show this Thursday at the Velvet Lounge as a line-up change is in the works - Aaron will be retiring from the band come mid-September.

Running With Scissors - "Isis on an Idle Hum"

Have I heard The Vicious Martinis on the radio before? Even if I haven't, their familiar sound certainly wouldn't be out of place on the airwaves. This supergroup, comprised of musicians from an array of now defunct DC bands, writes power-pop anthems as good as anybody. This upbeat track, "A Song Named Sue," is musically fun, layering melodic guitar riffs and a quirky keyboard part that really turns up the fun. The witty lyrics are sung with a raw, edgy sound, topping off this loud and fast rock song. Catch these local favorites live at TT Ryenold's August 26th.

The Vicious Martinis - "A Song Named Sue"

Middle Distance Runner is quickly becoming a local must-see amongst fans of catchy, indie pop music. This track, "Naturally," is not a heavy feeling rock song, but rather bubbles along with acoustic guitars, ringing synths, and my favorite, the hand claps. Keeping time in the background, they'll have you moving along to this song in no time. The vocals have a light and airy quality, a good match to the low-key but chirpy music, while the lyrics provide an amusing introspective look at the struggles of finding love. See this dance-worthy band live at The Velvet Lounge on Saturday, August 26th.

Middle Distance Runner - "Naturally"

Verlette Simon, a Maryland singer/songwriter, has been working in the music industry for years and has brought her Big Apple experience to D.C. Many of her songs, including "Faceless Stranger," feature only an acoustic guitar and vocals. Verlette, however, does this well, becoming the quintessential example of simple elegance. Influenced by classic R&B, she has created a modern, stripped down approach to songwriting, letting her soulful style shine through. Singing about losing sight of who you are, Verlette's voice is versatile, from soft and soothing to powerful and strong in just the right spots.

Verlette Simon - "Faceless Stranger"

Tim'm is a local poet who performs as an emcee, teaches English, and has written a book. His songs are a union of hip-hop, house, and spoken word, and are the musical counterpart to his book of poetry. In "Red Dirt," the words are intelligent and personal as he recounts his childhood in Arkansas. Tim'm assures that "of all the places I've lived on this great Earth, I'll always remember where I come from, red dirt." The background track's deep drum loop sounds like its playing straight off the record player. The guitar accompaniment is clean and sharp, emphasizing the off beats, making for a good rhythm to move to. Tim'm will be performing at the D.C. Poetry Festival this Sunday at the Carter Barron Amphitheatre.

Tim'm - "Red Dirt"

Wes Tucker, along with his band The Skillets, gives a modern sound to roots-rock. Situated between country, blues, and rock, "Casting Stones" is a foot-tappin', cautionary tale of how "we all strive for the glory, but we all fall short," all the while pointing a finger "like you know who to blame." Though the lyrics are less than uplifting, they are insightful nonetheless. With cool slide-guitar licks that add just a touch of country and acoustic guitars filling out the harmony, this song is the perfect blend between rock and country, appealing to those on all sides of the genre divide. This song is a flawless piece of music and a quality recording. Wes Tucker and The Skillets will play at Whitlow's on Wilson in Arlington this Saturday, August 19th.

Wes Tucker - "Casting Stones"

Citing influences from modern indie rockers Belle and Sebastian and The Decemberists to the more senior sounds of The Zombies, The Positions know how to write a playful pop song. The horn section and flute are the highlights on "Flowers and Trees," playing crafty riffs that will make you want to break out those silly '60s dance moves. Lively vocals from Nicole Stoops bounce lightly atop the acoustic guitar rhythm part. This song is a melting pot of multigenerational styles, combining their childhood influences with modern indie-pop.

The Positions - "Flowers and Trees"

If you are looking for pop music that is a little more relevant than the current teen craze of the week, then you don't have to search far. Susan Greenbaum is a local Virginia singer who writes original pop-songs aimed towards a slightly more mature crowd. Her songs take on topics such as the doldrums of the working world, the routine of suburban life, and in "Spin Like a Top," people's rebellious sides. I love the music on this track; it changes tempo, instrumentation, and musical styles, pairing up a more pop-like verse with refrains blaring with electric guitars. These dramatic musical changes command attention through the whole track, making for a highly respectable pop song.

Susan Greenbaum - "Spin Like A Top"

Telograph is a local rock group with a sound that feels more London than D.C. They admit to their Brit-pop inspirations and are familiar with comparisons to bands such as Franz Ferdinand and The Strokes. So if those groups are your cup of tea, then Telograph's "Beneath Your Feet" is sure to impress. Atop of the warm, fuzzy guitars, singer Andy Boliek's voice is clear and deep, a real standout vocal track. The drum pattern changes several times through the song, keeping you on your toes anticipating tempo changes. Hear their refreshing sound live at DC9 on August 12th.

Telograph - "Beneath Your Feet"