Before I actually start talking about the music, I’d like to blab a little bit about this first photo. Found on Flickr, the shot is of Emily Haines of Metric by user crazybobbles. I can’t even being to describe how beautiful this is. Take a look at the rest of their sets—there are a lot of really good photos from live shows and concerts.

Ah, Metric. This is going to be hard to limit how much I write simply because I am madly in love with every single track on Fantasies.

Gimme Sympathy — we’re so close to something better left unknown — Possibly my favorite track off the album, and also one of my favorite songs ever. The song’s perfection lies within its first thirty seconds—the first verse.

Help I’m Alive — if i stumble, they’re going to eat me alive — First single and probably most interesting sounding off Fantasies. Something about the strange beat and sound effects used as the skeleton of the song draws me in. I hate to sound repetitive, but i think this track’s hook is in the first segment of the song also.

Twilight Galaxy— did they tell you you should grow up, when you wanted to dream — I think the title word “twilight” is probably the best idea to associated with this song. The dream-like synth sequence in combination with Emily’s calm vocals is very reminiscent of sunset/sunrise tranquilit. Definitely one of the slower tracks on the album, but definitely a gem.

I’ve been waiting for this for ages. Crossing The Rubicon, the new album from Swedish synth-rock-pop group The Sounds. 2009 has been a good year in music so far and it will only get better.

I have nothing to say really other than this album is truly epic. There’s a great mix of upbeat dance songs and a few beautiful rock ballads. What makes everything even better: a majority of the tracks have a very 80s-rock influenced sound.

No One Sleeps When I’m Awake — standing in the shadows I hear people say I’ve got confessions to make — The incredibly infectious lead single off Crossing The Rubicon is sure to please fans of The Sounds, alternative rock listeners, and then some with its catchy guitar hook.

Beatbox — turn it up and break it down, come on bring that beatbox back — This song is so energetic and fun it’s almost ridiculous. Maja’s rapping is a bit funny sounding, but I guarantee the beat will have you dancing in your seat. Promise.

Midnight Sun — I will be coming with you, tonight you’re all that I want — A beautiful and euphoric sounding rock ballad that screams midsummer love. A great track to listen to on a warm night with the windows down and moonroof open.