The other day I was asked who my favorite bands are right now. I answered the question, singing the praises of Janelle Monae and Dead Weather but I must admit that I forgot a few. So I figured since I’m always thinking about updating this blog, maybe I’d dump my brain for real and share my some of my new favorites with you, dear readers (if you’re still with me).
Of course there are the two mentioned above, one a super band created by a man most would agree is a rock GENIUS; the other an underrated member of the recent soul revival. Here are a few others:
Kings of Leon: The music is great and I have to admit that while like so many others I had never heard of KOL until “Sex on Fire” broke, I think they’re older songs are much better than the ones on the latest album. In fact, on my favorite tracks from Because of the Times (2007) is “My Party.” If you can sit still while listening to this song, you’re not alive and that is the simple truth. The only problem I see with KOL is that the energy in the music doesn’t seem to translate into an engaging performance. All the same, I’m perfectly happy bouncing around to their music without needing to see a live show.
Nico Vega: Anyone who has read any of my music blogs knows that I LOVE Nico Vega. This is one band whose energy does translate and transcend live. If you ever need a rock fix, Nico Vega has the cure for ails you. They’re already an underground sensation and definitely on the break.
The Lexingtons: These guys are as fun as they are dapper. A group of up-and-comers who sort of make you remember what cool really is. What do I mean by that you ask? Just have a look at this “Bad Kids” cover video. Doesn’t it just remind you of what a video should be? Videos may not make a star anymore but that doesn’t mean they can’t be interesting.
Flotation Walls: Orchestral and cinematic is the best way to describe this group. To see them live is to see just how hard they work. Acoustic, electric, violins, guitars, upright bass, synthesizers, percussion, drums, horns…you name it they can play it, sometimes all in the same show. And we’re not talking about some 10 person ensemble. The music is a wonderful combination of dramatically classical and sharp witted rocking edginess.
I’m sure I’ll think of more later, but for now, these are the folks at the top of my recommendation list. What are you listening to these days?
I'm a writer, editor, music nerd, pop culture enthusiast, and opinionated information junkie.
