Artist: Old 97's

Album: Satellite Rides

Sounds Like: Son Volt, Blue Mountain, Wilco

Combining the raw edge of insurgent country with the craftiness of classic pop, Old 97's have produced one of the more entertaining and enjoyable listening experiences of the year. While not likely to produce a crossover hit into mainstream radio, Satellite Rides is full of catchy hooks and melodies that will have you bopping your head all day.

Hailing from that hot bed of honky-tonk, Texas, Old 97's received some radio play about a year and a half ago with their single "Nineteen" off their album Fight Songs. They have only improved the country/pop formula that made that album so great with the Kinks-y "King of All the World," classic pop of "Rollerskate Skinny" and "Weightless," and the almost Beatle-esque "Question."

Though Rhett Miller's lyrics focus primarily on one thing­­love­­they are still clever. You'll find yourself singing lines like "Do you wanna meet up at the Pickwood Bowl/We can knock nine down and leave one in the hole" from "Rollerskate Skinny" whether you want to or not.

The great musicianship of the band only compliments Miller's plaintive vocals. Murray Hammond adds his characteristic "oohs" to the songs while laying down some beautifully melodic bass lines. Ken Bethea's lead guitar fills are melodic yet edgy, and Phillip Peeples provides his usual stellar drumming, pushing certain songs with restless energy while keeping others in check.

Contagious and catchy at times, raw and excitable at others, and just fun the whole time, Satellite Rides is a must-listen for any fan of both pop and country alike. Though classified in that "alt-country" genre along with Wilco, Son Volt, and Blue Mountain, Old 97's forge their own sound that is instantly recognizable and forever incurable. The songs will get in your head and stay there.