Set Free
American Analog Set is one of the most endearing bands you've probably never heard of. AmAnSet, as they are sometimes known, have spent 10 years writing and recording six full-length CDs that are religiously loved by fans; their new disc,Set Free, is likely to be similarly worshipped.  Those unfamiliar with the group's gorgeously floaty sounds deserve an analogy, so here's one to get you started: imagine that the late singer/songwriterElliott Smithdid a disc of lullabies, sometimes solo, occasionally backed byStereolab. Sounds good, doesn’t it? In fact, it's great.  American Analog Set's beauty lies in its combination of simplicity, candor, and yes, repetition. There are some amazing moments on this disc; "Cool Kids Keep" pulsates with a subtle groove, while "She’s Half" contains the kind of fragile beauty that can cause a full body ache.Set Freeis the musical equivalent of a an old fleece hoodie. While this music can't change the world, it can make people happier, calmer, and more peaceful...one listener at a time.--Denise Sheppard