OutTraveler.FM: You Can Hear the Distance Calling

Story by Olga Bas

Music is a fun part of travel and we here at Out Traveler are a musical lot -- but don't ask us to sing! For this edition of travel-themed playlists, check out all the queer-friendly bands and songs with destination names in their title.

1. Of Montreal
Of Montreal is as colorful as the French Canadian city it takes its name from. Kevin Barnes, the brains behind the band, has an exhibitionist streak, but when he's dressed, it's always a spectacle. During the most recent tour he has taken the stage on a white stallion wearing nothing but a loincloth.

Recommended track: Bunny Ain't No Kind of Rider
"It's all about soul power and girls kissing girls, what's not to like?"

2. Tokyo Police Club
Tokyo Police Club is no relation to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department. In fact, they are from Ontario, Canada. Fronted by the fey Dave Monks, the band gained buzz in Montreal and have since made a splash with their latest single "Graves," which was featured on Logo's NewNowNext Music.

Recommended track: Your English is Good
"A shout-out chorus and hopeful message -- they've got our vote."

3. I'm From Barcelona
They're not actually from Barcelona (from Sweden instead), but you've got to admit, it's catchy! And that's not all; with 30 official members in the band, this must be the largest indie rock group in current existence. It's a wonder they all fit on stage together.

Recommended track: Britney
"An ode (of sorts) to the stranger side of Britney Spears. Enough said."

4. The Dresden Dolls
Despite originating from Boston, the firebombing of Dresden had a profound influence on the band. Drawing much inspiration from their city of choice, The Dresden Dolls are known as "Brechtian punk cabaret," as branded by Amanda Palmer, out bisexual and one half of the Weimar duo.

Recommended track: Coin-Operated Boy
"Love without complications galore… who could ever, ever ask for more."

5. Luxembourg
Named after the small but picturesque European country, these five lads are actually from London, England. Occasionally labeled "pop noir" (but never to their faces), the influence of The Smiths can be clearly heard. Though the band -- a darling of the London Gay Times and music fans everywhere -- is no longer together, their back catalog is available for free at www.last.fm.

Recommended track: What the Housewives Don't Tell You
"Unlike Desperate Housewives, which is full of intrigue, this is catchier by far and there's cowbell!"

Bonus:Top 5 Tracks With Destination Names in the Title

The Faint - Southern Belles in London Sing
Electronic, melodic, operatic only just covers it; and certainly does London proud.

Patrick Wolf - Paris
Full of swelling violins and a hopeful sparkle that only the extravagant Mr. Wolf can add; historic Paris is quickly sketched.

Ultravox - Vienna
An anthem to the Austrian capital, the song is a staple of early '80s music and the New Romantics movement.

KillCity - New York in My Pocket
Loud and a little dirty -- expect nothing less from Lisa Moorish who's made some high-profile celebrity matches in the past.

Duran Duran - Rio
Probably the best-known track these Brits ever recorded and for a good reason: You can almost taste the sea breeze.