Who knows what year it is? Who cares when the songs are this sweet? To call Leftover Cuties retro or throwback would be too easy. Sure, the music fits beside Billie Holiday, but it’s also current in its sex appeal, its sophistication, its confidence. The Cuties’ music—with upright bass, accordion, brushed drums, and yes, ukulele—is not slavishly old-timey, but honors its forebears in the right way, with melody, sharp playing, stylish, confident, character-laden singing, and strong, honest original songs. When Leftover Cuties chanteuse Shirli McAllen steps to the microphone, she commands your attention because she’s got something to say, and a beguiling way of saying it. Their spellbinding first album, “Places to Go,” won raves from critics, and their brilliant sophomore outing, "The Spark and the Fire," was all about love: it makes the heart sing, soar, ache and burn … often in the same hook. Leftover Cuties are at work on their third album, so watch out, world!