A look at four local artists you should check out:

Lejeune
Web: www.myspace.com/lejeunedc
Album: For Club and Country
Show: Nov.  27 at Jammin’ Java
Based on their 2004 self-titled release, I’ve been thinking of Lejeune as a bit twangy, calling up Chris Isaac as much as Billy Idol. But this year’s “For Club and Country” shows that they’ve developed their New Wave tendencies the most, and the result is chiming, dense tracks and a good sound. The guitar still jangles, but it’s dialed back behind Sam Bishop’s vibrating projection of clever, original lyrics.

Middle Distance Runner
Web: www.middledistancerunner.com
Album: EP
This six-track set from locals MDR gives you the spectrum of their Brit-style rock, a range they cover with confidence. From the anthemic opener “The Sun and the Earth” to the harder sounds of “Man of the People”, they mix rock guitar, ‘80s synth, dance-hall beats and well-sung lyrics like “I hope she’s got a husband / I hope that he is coming to find me / and tear out both my eyes.” Accomplished pop.



Jon Braman
Web: www.myspace.com/jonbraman
Album: Climatastrophunk
It’s a great gimmick: The white guy rapping with a ukelele that he found in the trash. But once you hear the album, the ukelele becomes almost irrelevant. Sure, it matters because it draws attention to Jon Braman, and because it gives the music a lighter sound. But if his rap sucked, it wouldn’t help. Fortunately he’s got the lyrical and rhythmical down, channeling messages of social conscience, environmental awareness, and falling in love with strangers with perfect aplomb.

The Crawdaddies
Web: www.thecrawdaddies.com
Album: Keep Lookin’ Up
These DC-Baltimore-based players got a WAMMIE nomination for their squeezebox-enabled music. Drawing inspiration from Zydeco but also the ska revival, “Keep Lookin’ Up” bops along merrily in a people-pleasing way. This is the kind of highly professional touring band that seems just designed for festival stages and happy outdoor crowds.