As the snow continues to fall, it seems that any hope of an early spring is way out of reach. But as February rolls along, there is a lot of new music being released and just waiting to be heard. If there is any band you should listen to this month, it must be Brooklyn-based Via Audio and its newest release “Animalore.” 

Via Audio is one of those bands that has received critical acclaim from respectable musicians, including Death Cab for Cutie and Spoon drummer Jim Eno. Eno even produced their much-anticipated new album “Animalore.”

 With their diverse array of sounds, it should come as no surprise that Via Audio is slated to be one of the big names in 2010. 

“Animalore” is a delightful album that is both fun and complex. Much of its appeal is the ’70s soul vibe that brightens up many of the album’s songs, but that’s not to say that the music sounds outdated, for certainly there is a modern feel to it. 

The glam-funk of songs like “Goldrush” and “Digital” utilize delicious electronic beats and soulful spunk. 

“Babies” is a funky little love song that is just perfect for Valentine’s Day. 

One of the best songs on the album is “Lizard Song.” With its wild main riff and stuttering pace, it wouldn’t feel out of place on a Vampire Weekend album. 

What’s also endearing about “Animalore” is its flexibility. 

Sitting in between all the upbeat, soulful tunes are beautiful, mellow jams like the tango of “Wanted” or the Steely Dan-influenced “Summer Stars.” 

The two acoustic-driven songs on the album, “Oh Blah Wee” and “Olga,” complement each other well. 

While “Oh Blah Wee” is a folky stomper filled with a sense of adventure, “Olga” is an acoustic ballad with luscious harmonies that really plays upon the soft rock of the ’70s. Both add to the irresistible charm of “Animalore.” 

Filled with a colorful palette of sounds, this spunky little album is sure to start your spring off right, as it doesn’t come out until March.

 As you’re buried in two feet of snow, March may seem very far away, but sometimes the best things in life are worth the wait.