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Music with an agenda is not always a good thing.  Protests songs are one thing, but if you really have something to say then you should try running for office.  However, if you have artists coming together to help spread awareness about AIDS, that is a different story.  In the latest edition of the Red Hot series of compilations, members of The National teamed up with organizer John Carlin to compile two discs of unique music by contemporary Indie artists.

Started in 1990, Red Hot puts out a compilation every year to raise awareness of AIDS using music and popular culture.  One of the more sought after albums of the 90s is No Alternative, a stellar compilation featuring rare tracks from plenty of top alternative acts.  Other themes they have covered are: dance, hip hop, Cole Porter, George Gershwin, Fela Kuti, Brazilian, country and many others.  These are not too easy to find, however, the artists that contribute make the search worthwhile.

This compilation includes original music by: Antony, Arcade Fire, Beirut, Andrew Bird, Blonde Redhead, Bon Iver, The Books, David Byrne, Cat Power, The Decemberists, Devastations, Dirty Projectors, Kevin Drew, Feist, Ben Gibbard, Jose Gonzalez, Grizzly Bear, Iron & Wine, Kronos Quartet, Stuart Murdoch, My Brightest Diamond, My Morning Jacket, The National, Conor Oberst, The New Pornographers, Riceboy Sleeps, Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Dave Sitek, Spoon, Sufjan Stevens, Gillian Welch, Yeasayer and Yo La Tengo.

If you are looking to help out a good cause and sample some of today’s new stars, you need to own these albums.  The songs aren’t sunny and uplifting, but the music is fascinating.  Most of these tracks can’t be found anywhere else, all the more reason to search the racks.  Remember: play safe.