The Dø

Critics are always naming this or that as the "ultimate perfect summertime album," but with the Dø's A Mouthful, we really, really mean it this time! For really real! The Finnish/French band capture the true feeling of summer very capably, in that A Mouthful alternates between being exuberantly joyful and utterly heartbreaking. Single "On My Shoulders" showcases Olivia Merilahti's absolutely devastating voice and equally devastating lyrical abilities ("How long will I sit and wait like a soldier/How many summers will it take?"). Between note-perfect songwriting, the Dø keep things interesting by experimenting with world rhythms and schoolyard chants. A Mouthful is a gorgeous earful. Do the Dø.