You could snuggle with “Sweetness”; it’s just that warm and fuzzy. No wonder Dan Deacon told Pitchfork “The music she writes is like a favorite blanket wrapped around you” about Air Waves‘ lead singer Nicole Schneitt. Like everything off last year’s Air Waves EP, “Sweetness” is packed with sunny California guitar pop perfect for the beach. Rapid percussion and an equally quick guitar strum featuring pretty much just two chords, and the song is practically complete. Add simple lyrics that are filled with lovable hooks, and …

Not surprisingly, this list is filled with EPs by quite a few bands you know and quite a few you probably don’t. Of the ones you don’t know, many are likely from Washington; a quick count leaves me with five bands, or 1/4 of this list. Many of these bands I consider among the most promising artists to surface in 2009. All are worth checking out, and you’ll want to keep an eye on them as we head into 2010.

With “Keys”, Air Waves proves that you don’t need to be technical geniuses to write a great song. “Keys” is quite simplistic, natural pop reminiscent of California beaches and sunny summer afternoons. Oddly enough, this band hails from New York. Basic guitar melodies, unembellished vocals; it’s all pure and easy. But it’s also damn catchy. Tropical to a point, the song is adorned with traces of acoustic power pop. “Keys” is unabashed pop greatness. In a way, it reminds me a bit of …