10 Artists You Should Know About
Amy Winehouse
A breed apart, this British R&B songstress manages to transcend genre boundaries with intelligent lyrics, enormous stage presence and some catchy hooks. Her success in the UK seems almost certain to be replicated Stateside.
Interpol
While mixing on Interpol's long-awaited third album is nearing completion, the release is still a few months away, and the band are taking to the road, airing this new material ahead of their forthcoming appearance at Coachella.
Squeeze
Maybe Squeeze aren't a band you should know so much as a band you used to know. They have, however, just announced a set of reunion tour dates, and we hope to see more!
Jon McLaughlin
McLaughlin is an accomplished pianist, reminiscent of both Ben Folds and Billy Joel. Check out his debut album, or catch him on tour with Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers!
The Gossip
Formerly of the Kill Rock Stars label which birthed the Decemberists and Elliot Smith, The Gossip have recently signed to Columbia subsidiary Music With A Twist, "the first major music label dedicated to identifying and developing lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and trans gendered (LGBT) artists." Look out for a new album soon!
Lightning Bolt
This noise rock duo from Rhode Island are perhaps a cut above many of their genremates. Known for preferring to put on so-called "guerilla gigs" in venues not usually played at by "established" bands, they have kicked off a new tour which - according to their website - includes a performance in the mythical land of Narnia.
Kings of Leon
KoL are Tennessee-based garage rockers, about to embark on an extensive tour in support of their new album Because Of The Times, out April 3 on RCA.
The Clouds
Hailing from Boston, the Clouds play an in-your-face brand of rock with angry political lyrics. Check out their debut album Legendary Demo!
The Majestic Twelve
North Carolina indie rockers the Majestic Twelve have just released their new album as a free download from their website. Take a listen!