1 - Chapel Club
We have discussed at nausea on how much this band is going to be explode in 2011, we have been tracking these London lads for two years now and with the release of their debut, Palace, later this month - we can lay to rest how gripping this band is.
2 - The Vaccines
Another big band from the UK, they have been getting much buzz back home and are set to come across the pond for the first time. We will be covering this surf-rock band that some have dubbed "The next Libertines" or "The new British Strokes."
3 - Glasser
This LA singer has a touching voice and mysterious sound but it is nothing but sheer talent. She is someone that will have people stop and go "wow," more than she has already done so far.
4 - Hank and Cupcakes
The most fun you will have listening to any band in the new year - guaranteed! The Israel via Brooklyn husband and wife duo are a two person Gogol Bordello and they will have you stomping across the aisles.
5 - Gordon Voidwell
Bronx born, Princeton educated and funky showmanship is what makes up Gordon Voidwell. One hell of a live performer and one hell of an entertainer, might be the biggest break out of 2011 for any male solo artist this year. Combining the theatrics of James Brown and the funk of Prince mixed with the sound of 80's, Gordon Voidwell is a trip inside and out.
6 - Fitz and the Tantrums
Here is a band that can rival the great Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, very soulful and very funky but mixed with the flair of The Heavy, Fitz and the Tantrums are a band to keep an eye out for.
7 - La Femme
Surf-rock done French style. As sweet as a french pastry but as soothing as a glass of wine, La Femme are taking lo-fi to a whole new level.
8- Frankie and the Heartstrings
Another British band that has their entire country keeping an eye on them. Frankie and the Heartstrings are rock and roll at its best. With the finesse of the early Stones and the fury of Oasis, Frankie and the Heartstrings are an essential British export.
9- Claire Maguire
Adele, Duffy, Amy Winehouse....all great female British singers, well meet the next! Claire Maguire is finally set to make her way into the US and fans better be ready, she is going to take you all by surprise.
10- The Heartbreaks
If Frankie and the Heartstrings are an essential British export and band, The Heartbreaks are the essential Manchester band for the new millennium. Taking queues from The Smiths, Oasis, Stone Roses and even Scotland's Orange Juice, The Heartbreaks are taking surf rock and Manchester music and putting their own stylish spin on it.
11- Exit Calm
Lately, this band has been our new obsession. From our December Rising Artist to our latest Quick Spin review, Exit Calm are an atmospheric band that are going to wrap their arms around the universe.
12- Mona
The best British band in America! This Nashville four piece is making waves across the pond (sounds like the early footing of another Nashville four piece....those Kings of Leon...) however, instead of sounding and looking like a Southern rock band, Mona look and sound like Glasvegas meets Echo and the Bunnymen.
13- Joy Formidable
This Welsh three piece is becoming the most exciting thing to come from Wales since the days of Stereophonics hayday. However, front woman Ritzy Bryan is proving she can play hard with the boys and win every time.
14- Flats
London is calling and they are saying "we have the next GREAT British punk band." Taking pages from punks prime, Flats are the first real punk band to emerge from anywhere in ages. Brutal, powerful and outspoken, Flats are hear to get in your face and make you pay attention.
15- Tennis
This husband and wife duo shook the indie world a bit by storm with their first singles over the summer, but their full length is what is going to make people embrace them more than they have. Lo-fi surf-rock that is going to make you want to travel the world and never look back!