Waking Ear

"California" Phantom Planet
I admit it - I am a fan of The O.C.

If you haven't given it a watch, please do. It's more than just your average cheesy teen drama. It's actually quite witty and modern.
My favorite character is Seth. I would have been head-over-heels for Seth had we gone to high school together. He's the perfect combo of geeky cool with great hair, fantastic taste in music (with a room covered in music posters) and just enough sarcasm and bitterness to keep things interesting.

If you didn't know, "California," from Phantom Planet is the show's theme song. I can't say I know much about this band, but they received an interesting write-up in Entertainment Weekly. Seems the band's new album takes a new spin from the sounds of "California" - partially due to the famous drummer's departure over the summer.

Last night's episode of the show featured Rooney, another band I have not familiarized myself with, mostly because they seem to be riding that indie pop rock wave that I'm not inclined to explore.

Still, I truly appreciate the show's attention to non-Top 40 artists. And if you check out the Web site of the show, and click on "Features" there is a link that lists all the songs played on each episode. You might be surprised to see the likes of Jem, Bright Eyes, The Dandy Warhols, New Pornographers, etc.

So give the show a whirl if you haven't already. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.