Two heartfelt recommendations are
- The String Quartet Tribute to Coldplay: the name says it all. It's the best string tribute I've heard- really well done and has a life of its own. Disclaimer: I do like Coldplay.

- Rilo Kiley, "The Execution of All Things": A wonderful Indy artist doing a great album. A friend thinks they sound a bit like Veruca Salt or The Postal Service (also a good Indy band)- I think they just sound good.