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Finding new music is a lot like dating. You have a number of choices, you test some out, some are nice and some are OK but none give you that tug in your stomach that makes you say, “Finally, I feel understood.”
Then you start a torrid love affair that truly stimulates your body, mind and soul. I suppose I am a serial dater when it comes to music because I can never seem to settle on just one choice. I fall in love, grow tired and move on to the next. When will I ever find my one and only? I rounded up what I think are the best fresh, new artists and, hopefully, you will fall in love, too.
Julia Marchionna can be reached at
jmarchionna@theorion.com
Calvin Harris
Calvin Harris just might be the greatest import from Scotland, ever. He is ridiculously talented and innovative. He created the first ever “humanthesizer” by slathering bikini-clad models with special connective paint and having them dance and clap to make the beats for his song “Ready for the Weekend.” His style is an ’80s throwback minus the cheap-sounding synthesizers and acid wash jeans. Harris has more kitschy, sexual prowess in one of his eyelashes than Katy Perry has in her entire body.
Sounds Like: Daft Punk, Empire of the Sun, Justice and Devo.
Download: “Girls”
The Knux
This duo consists of brothers Krispy Kreme and Rah Al Millio. Together they deliver the same kind of clever, lyrically driven alternative rap songs popularized by Talib Kweli and Murs, but in their own special style. The Knux’ first single “Cappucino” made Rolling Stone Magazine’s top 100 singles of 2008 and their first album, “Remind Me in 3 Days,” demonstrates the group’s fun, witty and undeniably hip style. If this were a high school poll, The Knux would win “Life of the Party,” hands down.
Sounds Like: Talib Kweli, Mos Def, Outkast, Common, A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul.
Download: “Daddy’s Little Girl”
Sam Sparro
If the Cosmos, Rick James and Freddy Mercury had a love child, Sam Sparro would be it. His voice is like gooey caramel goodness and exhibits the kind of talent and imagination few artists possess right now. His self-titled first album is 13 tracks of lively electro-pop jams. Sparro is a very diverse artist. His first single, “Black and Gold,” questions the existence of God but is paired with a groovy, techno-pop beat. This guy has so much soul and sexiness, it probably oozes out of his perfect pores.
Sounds like: David Bowie, Peter Bjorn and John, MGMT and Queen.
Download: “Cottonmouth”
The Helio Sequence
This band is one of those rare finds that leave you breathless. I had the pleasure of seeing them live in Seattle, WA and was blown away by the duo’s simple, unpretentious and powerful performance. Two guys with a guitar and a drum set delivered one of the best shows I have ever been to. Their songs beautifully blend hauntingly sad lyrics with earnest drums and lead singer Brandon Summers’ soft, sensitive voice. It is the kind of music that reminds you of an old lover and the intimate moments you shared.
Sounds like: Pinback, Death Cab for Cutie, Modest Mouse and Bob Dylan.
Download: “Shed Your Love”
The Hempolics
I stumbled across this London-based band while on a MySpace music binge and was instantly attracted to their blend of British kick, mellow dub and hip-hop inspired jams. According to their Myspace page, The Hempolics make their songs in a bedroom in South East London, which makes them even more kick-ass. And, hey, any band that encourages you to burn some “Mary Jane” while you listen to them is perfectly fine by me. You might be thinking, “Brits who toke herb and rock out to reggae?” Trust me, though. These guys are boss.
Sounds like: The Clash, The Specials, Eek A Mouse and Dizzee Rascal.
Download: “Bongadashi”
Dizzy Balloon
These guys were recommended to me by a friend when I asked about fresh, new artists. I checked them out and was pleasantly surprised by their music. They have all the charm of Plain White T’s, the indie appeal of Vampire Weekend and a pop-rock sound that gives them a young, fresh and infectious feel. Their music is sweet and catchy with an indie-pop, Ivy League twist. I’m betting serious money these guys are going to hit it big.
Sounds like: Vampire Weekend, Cartel, Motion City Soundtrack, Jimmy Eat World and Panic at the Disco.
Download: “Crazy Jane”
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