While Adele is off on pregnancy-leave, what better time to check out other (better?) artists in the same genre?  In addition to Brandi Carlile, check out Cold Specks, which is primarily the work of Canada-born and London, England-based singer/songwriter Al Spx.  Having rapidly gained attention and appearing on Later With Jools Holland last year, Cold Specks has released their critically-acclaimed debut album, I Predict A Graceful Expulsion, on Arts & Crafts Records.  To get a feel for the band, check out below recent performances by Cold Specks (sometimes with band, sometimes without) who have/has been making the rounds in support of the album.  We like what we hear.  Simple, yet lyrically complex.  Intelligent, and not afraid to use it.  And yes, the girl can sing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CcAWMxddNHs&feature=plcp