THE FRAY: How to Save a Life (Epic/Sony BMG).

THIS Denver quartet has cornered the emo-rock/pop market with its debut offering. Balladeer Isaac Slade's sublime, melodic vocals teamed with the piano-driven sound make comparisons to Coldplay hard to overlook, and Slade can hit the high notes. Catchy single Over My Head (Cable Car) is hard to shake, while the sweet ballad Look After You is a standout and the title track is heartbreaking with achingly poignant lyrics. This is a polished album full of soaring melodies and honest tunes.

MELISSA PHILLIPS