If I were to describe the music of Cats Like Angels in two words, they would be "Passionate" and "Diverse." With their debut release, Validating John, the Cats bring their unique brand of infectious hook-filled melodic pop. Led by founders Guitarist/Vocalist/Songwriter Melissa "Cat" Mentus and Vocalist/Songwriter Ellen "Gato" Lalicata, the Cats' Validating John manages to capture the true passion and diversity of this band. This is a very fresh and emotive, yet very happy record. It's also very diverse as well, from the poppish, upbeat opener "What Would You Think" to the beautiful a capella closer "Promise." It's very refreshing to see that these gals don't take life too seriously. I mean who else can write a song called "Semi-Bitter Breakup Song?" Oh, and check out the "hidden" track.

These "Cats" just love music and are having a blast writing, playing, living and breathing music. A very inspiring positive aura just oozes out of the speakers when you're playing Validating John. And let's talk vocals, they are INCREDIBLE!! Both Ellen and Melissa share the lead vocals and harmonize beautifully. Their voices are quite different, but compliment each other perfectly. The harmonies on "Set Free" are as close as you can get to being serenaded by Angels, trust me on this one. And speaking of "Set Free," it features Ellen Lalicata at her finest; her passionate vocals will give you goosebumps. It's a very heartfelt song. Such emotive vocals are seldom found these days. Melissa Mentus' performance on "Now" is memorable as well, it has quite a climactic ending. What a beautiful voice! Other highlights include the rockin' "Red Shirt," and "Purple Hair," the flamenco-flavored "Slightly Mad," the bluesy "Run Boy," and the almost reggae-ish, quasi-beatnik "I Was the Well."

Many good reasons to grab this gem: excellent songwriting and stellar production, especially for an indie artist. But trust me when I say this, these gals will not be "indie" for long. Cats Like Angels have something really special going and it's only a matter of time 'til the rest of the world discovers what Ellen and Melissa have known all along. So if you're a fan of good tunes, great vocals, or are in the mood for some good-time melodic pop rock (played with REAL instruments) which pretty much blows away anything being played on Top 40 radio, I highly recommend adding Cats Like Angels to your daily musical diet.

MetalGod's Pick - "Set Free" (4:25)

Reviewed by MetalGod

Check out the interview with Cats Like Angels.