Mikey Wehling and the Reverbs One of the more obvious commendations for an artist using electronics is to note the humanity of her knob twists and button pressings. Few deserve the compliment as much as Mikey Wehling, a key member of Messy Jiverson in a past life and someone with a deep affection for grooves. His prolific solo output over the last year and a half shows his commitment to analog, and the translation to full band isn't much of a stretch. The songs, in turn, are evolving from lush and patient moods to danceable jams. --Kiernan Maletsky
The Spot Ons Joe Rohlman and Kate Peterson understand the power of the boy-girl dynamic. The duo, who make up the Spot Ons, imbue their songs with harmonies that showcase their playful chemistry and the beautiful contrast between Rohlman's baritone pipes and Peterson's feminine voice. These harmonies are laid atop Rohlman's guitar parts that are alternately folky, funky, jazzy or country-inflected while Peterson supplements the groove on one of her many instruments (among other things, she has a Wurlitzer, accordion and toy piano at her disposal). It's a testament to Spot Ons' tight arrangements that it can generate a powerful show with only two players, but it's nonetheless exciting to know that for the band's upcoming EP they tracked sessions with a hired rhythm section. But no matter what shape Spot Ons is in, its music remains fun, witty and infectious. --Bob McMahon
