I know it’s the Christmas season, but Charli XCX’s synth-pop ballad “Valentine” was one of my favorites this year.  So in keeping with a Valentines theme for today, it’s only right that I highlight The Temper Trap’s “Need Your Love”, along with tracks from the UK’s Citizens!, Brooklyn’s HAERTS (can’t wait to hear more from this duo, probably my most anticipated of 2013), and LA’s Kisses.  And for my anti-Valentine’s Day readers, Deerhoof’s “Breakup Songs” and La Sera’s “Break My Heart”.

♩Charli XCX – Valentine [single]
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I love this song.  It’s been on constant repeat since first listen and i’ve yet to get tired of it.  When you have a chance, definitely check out the music video (one of the year’s best) and the Gigamesh remix.

♩Citizens! – True Romance [from Here We Are]
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“Breakup Songs” from the album Breakup Song.  A bit confusing, but after eleven albums of energetic and delightful noise-pop, I expect nothing less.

♩Deerhoof – Breakup Songs [from Breakup Song]
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As far as I know, this track is the first (and only) release from the duo.  I can’t wait to hear more.  Might be my most anticipated of 2013.

♩HAERTS – Wings [single]
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Kisses released this single back in August, their first new track since their 2010 debut, The Heart of the Nightlife.  I’m hoping this is the precursor of a new album in 2013.

♩Kisses – Funny Heartbeat [single]
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Sees the Light is the second album by Katy Goodman (Vivian Girls, All Saints Day), whose pure and melodious voice, masks a tragically beautiful breakup record.

♩La Sera – Break My Heart [from Sees the Light]
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Great follow up to 2009’s Conditions.  Leadoff track, “I Need Your Love”, has been my favorite since first listen, but “Trembling Hands”, “Miracle”, and “Where Do We Go From Here” are a few more tracks worth a listen.

♩The Temper Trap – Need Your Love [from The Temper Trap]
♩[bonus] The Temper Trap – Need Your Love (RAC remix)
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