I have long claimed the northwest music capital of the United States, at least when it comes to the indie scene.  Death Cab for Cutie, Modest Mouse, Postal Service, Band of Horses, Fleet Foxes, I can go on but I digress.  Luckily enough for us though, Portland, Oregon’s Oh Darling has emerged and is the latest northwest band to contribute to the indie movement.

The first thing anyone will notice about the band is the lead singer Jasmine Ash’s distinctive voice.  I’ve heard many people compare her voice to that of Beth Gibbons, of Portishead, and while the voices are at times similar, the style of music couldn’t be more different.  Unlike Portishead’s often melancholy brooding, Oh Darling’s debut album Nice Nice is an upbeat, if at times quirky, indie pop album.

It consistently blends cheerful rhythms with Ash’s uniquely exuberant vocals to great affect.  Songs like Shoulda Never, Electrocute, and Waking up on a Train feature strong poppy hooks with powerful drumming and some solid bass lines.  It’s an oddly danceable and addictive blend that really works well for the band.  However, don’t let that trick you into believing they are a one trick pony.  Bird-brained, Blindspot, and Only Beginnings(which features a really cool sounding filtered voice), offer a slower and more subtle take on the indie pop genre.  Altogether the album is a well rounded endeavor that never seems to bombard the listener with repetition.

The only downside is the length.  The album in its entirety clocks in at a meager 35:46, but offers some solid outings in the meantime.  Anyone with a love of cheery catchy music would do well to check out Nice Nice.

You can check out Electrocute here and listen to their other music via the wonders of Myspace.