Blue Merle

While you wait for the next Coldplay album, Nashville’s Blue Merle should fill in nicely. It’s eerie how much singer Lucas Reynolds’ tenor sounds just like the voice of Coldplay leader Chris Martin. Named after a Led Zeppelin lyric (not the Australian sheepdog), this foursome somewhat distinguishes itself by using a mandolin on its emotionally charged debut, Burning in the Sun. Innocuous yet heartfelt, Reynolds’ soaring vocals guide sincere tunes such as the title track and “Seeing Through You.” Blue Merle’s genuine feelings are wholly believable, even if they sound as if they were borrowed from someone else.