Blending a light, bouncy pop sound remeniscent of The 88, Squeeze, The Shins, and aspects of The Police with a sometimes angular sound, Chicago's The Changes have managed to craft a sound that is at once recognizable but still unique. I'm a sucker for jangly guitars, keys and hooky choruses' & The Changes have loads of all. If you're in the Chicago area for New Year's Eve, buy your tickets to see them at Schubas. I have a feeling 2005 will be the last time you'll be able to pay only $15 to see them play. For your listening (dis)pleasure:

The Changes: Her You and I

The Changes: When I Wake

The Changes: When I Sleep

The Changes: The Machine