Not long ago, UK's Athlete scored the prestigious Mercury Music Prize for their 2003 album Vehicles and Animals. I've been following the band ever since that remarkable album. However, many have said that they made a stark transition from bright to melodramatic tones. Some see their 2005 album Tourist as the dawning of the Coldplay-esque, Brit-pop phase in Athlete's catalog. Fresh off the heels of their latest album Beyond The Neighborhood, Athlete have continued in that so-called "Brit-pop" fashion, but lightened up their tone.

Their album's single "Hurricane" is filled with sunny melodies and fast-paced high-hat syncopations. Make sure you catch their set tonight at the Troubadour! They'll surely sate old and new fans alike. Note that this will be their final US appearance this year.