January was a month with very little music and that didn't surprise me at all. It was a time where the indie kids shined more than the mainstream scene because it's the start of the new year. After all, the world still hasn't gotten over Gwen Stefani's new piece of crap, they can't shove the new Fall Out Boy album down our throats yet.

Either way, January wasn't without its highlights, as The Shins released their third album, Wincing The Night Away. This album was as cheery, poppy and brilliantly charismatic as The Shins have always been. Yet, they've created a more moody album this time around to appeal to the emo and indie kids worldwide. Nevertheless, they still shine on this one.

Guess what? Damon Albarn's back again...again! The Good, The Bad and The Queen is his latest project with Paul Simon of THE CLASH!!! His latest work, originally planned as a solo project, was produced by Danger Mouse and drummed by Fela Kuti drummer Tony Allen (and how can this not sound like fun at this point?). The album is a spectacular piece of pop music, already in the running for album of the year, and just possesses such potential for future albums. I believe, as tragic as the loss of Gorillaz and Blur would be, Albarn could run with this project alone for quite a while.

Finally, the biggest surprise of the month came from Ms. Norah Jones with her third album Not Too Late. The woman has always been a favourite of my parents and grandparents even, but I've suddenly found myself taking an interest in her work. The woman is a VERY talented musician, and it shows on her latest work. It greatly differs from her sophomore spectacular, Come Away With Me, but still sounds incredible. Pick it up if you have some spare pocket change lying around.

What this month came down to was the indie scene. With other releases from bands like Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Of Montreal, Fujiya and Miyagi, Field Music and many more bands that I've never heard of, if you want indie rock, January is the month for you. But for the rest of us who desire substance over simply the next big thing, February should hold some interesting stuff. With new Bloc Party on the way, Apostle of Hustle, The Magic Numbers and hey, even Yoko Ono has an album coming out (*shivers*), February should hold surprises of all kinds.