House of Heroes "God"

House of Heroes have been a while, but they're still bringing the thought-provoking and creative lyrics with soaring vocals that made Serial Sleepers a hit.   God is about five questions about different (mis?)conceptions of the creator.

Papel Maché "Hay Tiempo"

Spanish indie-folk group Papel Maché mixes positivity with beautiful music and whimsical vocals.  Sometimes their lyrics (they sing in Spanish and English) are about morning coffee, and sometimes they're straight from the Bible, but they tend to have a balance that comes off as whimsy where others would just sound cheesy.  One of the groups I was most excited to find this year, ¡check out Papel Maché!

Kalben "Sadece"

Kalben's voice is perfect:  a haunting mix that sounds something between French Jazz and Spanish Pop with a backdrop of nice acousticish rock, this song about the complicated love straight gives me goosebumps.  There is some awesome Turkish music out there, and Kalben is probably a great place to start, especially if you're a fan of soulful voices like Lissie or Fleetwood Mac.  

Zuzana Smatanová and Adam Ďurica "Miesta"

Slovakian indie pop rockster Zuzana Smatanová is one of the nicest sounds out of Eastern Europe I've heard, but this combo with pop-folk Adam Ďurica (his soaring but somewhat cheesy pop is somewhere between Kongos and Colbie Caillat) is the most memorable piece I've come across.  It's a song about loss and losing your safe place (presumably a relationship).   Enjoy!  

Mbongwana Star "Malukayi"

So these guys in wheelchairs from the DRC...can say I know much about them, but this jam is a jam.  Chill and dancing on and on.  Thanks to Paste for the rec.

MaNNazz "Mozzarella"

So if you're a fan of Abba or Europop, this song by Lithuanian-based MaNNazz could be your jam.

Chef' Special "In Your Arms"

Dutch group Chef' Special delves into rap, indie, pop, and rock across the spectrum of their broad sounds.  However, like most of the artists on Fueled by Ramen, what sets them apart are heartfelt, thoughtful, honest lyrics.  Check this love song with a twist, "In Your Arms."