Hot Panda

After living abroad in Oslo, Norway, Hot Panda drummer Maghan Campbell and vocalist/guitarist Chris Connelly were inspired. The Scandinavian music scene supported its artists to incredible lengths, so it was only reasonable for the two to recruit a couple other go-getters (namely a bassist and keyboardist/accordionist) and test-drive Canada’s own affinity for eclectic, DIY artists. Hot Panda’s latest disc, Whale Headed Girl, is an example of the Edmonton-based quartet’s undeniable urge to create something that’s excitement-driven yet wholly enjoyable. "It’s Worth 8 Dollars” is upbeat and nothing short of a party — scrambled guitars chase vintage vocals, creating a pop-sprinkled rock sound. "Gliese 581c,” on the other hand, is less than two minutes long and could probably be the theme song for a movie like Close Encounters of the Third Kind, while "Chinatown Bus” has a retro feel, incorporating a vicious sense of adventure alongside its raw and randy nature. Really, Whale Headed Girl is a starter album for a band looking to dig their heels into something firmer but by golly, is it ever a good way to kick things off.