Sky Signal

Founded by former matt pond PA members Mike Kennedy and Jim Kehoe, Audible quickly became the toast of Philadelphia's indie rock community. With the coed quintet's full-length debut, Sky Signal, the group puts its wares on display for the worldwide underground to hear. Opening with the glorious "October Song," Kennedy, keyboardist Mary Garito, and bassist Kristine Muller brew up a warm coed vocal blend that -- coupled with Steve Cawley's perky beat -- is downright irresistible. The same could be said for the gorgeous melodies (think the Shins, Zumpano, Wings, and the Kinks) of "From the Third Floor," "We Were Wrong," and the title track. As opposed to plain old guitar rock, Audible makes every instrument count -- using sparseness to invent really unique songs. If the bright, piano-steered pop of "Sunday Bell" puts Kennedy's fine Paul McCartney-like pipes out in front, the band isn't afraid to get aggressive, as it does on "Finally Found." Amid a self-assured thump, the group points its middle finger at fake friends while closing the door on what will undoubtedly be remembered as one of 2005's best indie discs.