When we created our list for the top five Asian-American albums in 2006, it was filled with music from the some of community's more prominent artists. 2007 was a departure from the mainstream and an exploration into the world of independent labels.

This year's selections range from a local staple to artists from both coasts whose genres span across the spectrum, and in some cases, blend musical styles. It is an eclectic mix of melodies that showcase the best the community has to offer.

5. The Wendy Woo Trio | 4. Dana Leong | 3. The Slants | 2. Cynthia Lin | 1. Misha

Top five albums of 2007: Misha

Childhood acquaintances explore subject of love in 'Teardrop Sweethearts'

By Joe Nguyen, AsiaXpress.com

Jan. 11, 2008 (Reprinted from Sept. 13, 2007)

Some people are just meant to be together.

Misha's John Chao and Ashley Yao grew up knowing each other in Taipei, Taiwan before events moved them around the world, according to their record label's website. But after college, they found each other again in New York, began dating and made beautiful music together.

Perhaps that’s why the duo's LP, Teardrop Sweetheart, is a collection of lighthearted love songs that elicit a spectrum of emotions. The group’s unique blend of mellow melodies and charming lyrics carry listeners through the ups and downs of a love.

The album opens with “Scars,” which features Chao's subdued vocals accompanied by steady claps and a simple bassline. Piano lines, horns and bright bell strikes are layered to create a rich sound.

The best song on the album is “Summersend,” a throwback to the 80s new-wave sound. Layered guitar riffs set the melody while the rhythmic bassline plays. Yao's vocals run parallel to Chao's lyrics, producing aurally pleasing harmonies as the muddled lyrics lend richness to the airy sound.

“Delovedly” opens with a bright music box melody, rattling clicks and a muffled drum bass before Chao's voice enters. Rich, high-pitched strings accompany Yao's voice. The electric piano and the bassline become more prominent as a steady hi-hat rhythm begin, giving the song a lounge-esque sound.

Love is a fickle subject that has been trotted on by everyone in every genre. What sets Teardrop Sweetheart apart is Misha’s avoidance of a cookie-cutter sound. Rather, they tackle the theme while producing sounds that are solely their own.

For more information on Misha, visit their MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/mishatheband.

Joe Nguyen is the editor in chief of AsiaXpress.com. Joe can be reached via e-mail at joe (at) asiaxpress.com.