Nico Vega

Nico Vega is an up-and-coming indie rock band based out of L.A. Those looking for a truly different sound should pick up their just-released self-titled debut. Lead singer Aja Volkman's voice is the driving force of the band -- moving effortlessly from sultry smoothness to growling scream-yells, respectively reflecting Chan Marshall of Cat Power and Brody Dalle of the Distillers. Coming out of the woodwork in a gust of punk-infused revelry, Nico Vega is fierce and infectious. The only weakness is their lyrics, which are disappointingly sub-par; but most of the time you'll be too wrapped up in the frenetic catchiness of their melodies and instrumentals to really focus on the words. (Myspace Records) Check them out at www.myspace.com/nicovega.