Little Dragon

2007's Little Dragon is a dynamic self-titled debut that is yet another credible and enchanting Euro-approximation of soul and rhythm and blues. Vocalist Yukimi Nagano displays all the subtle inflections and conspicuous acrobatics that have identified the R&B genre for years, but specifically the more recent paradigms of the Chaka Khans and MJBs, noted easily on the album's highlight "Constant Surprises."

Meanwhile, "Wink" is a sexy, synth-heavy club banger that might conjure some of the more poppish acts like Rihanna. But the album - and group - don't stop there, thankfully. They give you everything from quaint piano ballads ("Twice") to jazz-drenched pieces, like "After the Rain" where keyboardist Hakan Wirenstrand makes like Herbie Hancock with his sparse and dissonant chording.

"Forever" is an ambient number meant for dark lounges with a lot of pheromone activity. It's a genuine album bolstered by the group's collective artistry. It proves, once again, that geography has very little to do with authenticity. LP - Limited vinyl Repress.