“”You’re Going Down”” by Sick Puppies
These Sydney, Australia natives know how to write a song that catches on. This tune grabbed the attention of World Wrestling Entertainment and it became their theme song for their “”Extreme Rules”” pay-per-view. From the simple and rhythmic guitar riffs to the agile chorus, this song is full of fight and angst while also being musically appealing. Be sure to check out their new album Tri-Polar coming out on July 14, and catch them live at The Rock this Friday.

“”Strange Condition”” by Pete Yorn
Acoustic guitars complement Yorn’s soft, relaxed voice. The lyrics are condescending to the song’s sound making it bittersweet to the ears, yet they hit that pleasant note of sweet musicality. This song was featured in “”Me, Myself, & Irene”” after Yorn was recruited to score the movie. Yorn is similar in sound to Counting Crows, or his female equivalent Liz Phair. His new album Back and Forth came out last month. Give it a listen to see if you like his new stuff. Yorn is heading through Tucson this Saturday where he will be performing at the Rialto Theatre.

“”Hope is a Butterfly, No Net Its Captor”” by RX Bandits
This song is basically unclassifiable. It’s got a hint of blues in the lyrics (reminiscent to Ewan McGregor in “”Moulin Rouge””) and instrumentals while also having this funky, prominent guitar. This song has two shifts, the second one being a little peppier than the first, making it seem like two different songs meshed together, with the best of both worlds – or in this case, songs. RXB has been on tour to promote their new album Mandala coming out July 21. Check them out when they play at Club Congress this Saturday and Sunday.

“”Let the Games Begin”” by Anarbor
This exuberant tune is catchy. Although the lyrics may be about cheating and yearning, it has a carefree, live-life-to-its-fullest attitude. The electric guitars, soulful, sliding vocals and a rhythmic dance beat make this song a great opener for their album Free Your Mind. In one simple song Anarbor is able to skillfully portray its strengths. The rest of their album is worth checking out, too.

Sick Puppies – The Rock, 136 N. Park Ave., July 10, all ages, 7 p.m. doors, 629-9221

Pete Yorn – The Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress St., July 11, all ages, 8:30 p.m., 740-1000

RX Bandits – Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St., July 11 & July 12, all ages, 6 p.m., 622-8848S