Magic Wands has quickly become our favorite dream pop duo. Magic Wands departed Austin/SXSW as one of the most anticipated groups of 2008 – but 2009 could be their year. They have upcoming dates in West Hollywood, Washington, and NYC. Check out Black Magic and Teenage Love.

The Get Go was formed in February of 2007 after the demise of Allister, Escape from Earth, White Tie Affair and Showoff. The band released two albums, recording their second one with producer Rob Freeman (Hit the lights, Cobra Starship). Listen to the track Overcome featuring MxPx. Contact: danielrfriedman@aol.com

Bradd began playing piano & drums at a very young age. An accomplished producer, songwriter & singer, Bradd is the true definition of “Triple Threat”. Bradd is one half of the producing duo “PrettyBoy & Bradd Young”. These two amazing talents have worked with Akon, Nelly, Kelly Rowland, Bone Thugs & Harmony, Jibbs, Maino, Tyra B, Yo Gotti, Teddy Riley & Talib Kweli. Listen to the first track Girlz which is already starting to react at radio. The major music companies are already taking notice. Contact: danielrfriedman@aol.com

iTunes has announced a new initiative titled “Cocktail” that aims to add value to digital albums sold on the iTunes Store. In hopes to get consumers to spend more, iTunes will offer a package that includes liner notes, artwork, ringtones, and music videos. Apple will be collaborating with EMI, Sony Music, Warner, and Universal, hoping for a September launch date.

“It’s all about recreating the heyday of the album when you would sit around with your friends looking at the artwork, while you listened to the music,” said an executive cited by the Financial Times.

KOAR favorite Shawn Fisher and the Jukebox Gypsies has signed with Universal Republic. Fisher was featured in our July 08 Soundcheck column. Our favorite tracks are Out of Control and Wandering. Contact danielrfriedman@aol.com