Artist to Watch

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The premier guide for new and significant artists in rock, blues, and folk - including NPR-syndicated World Cafe ®

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Monday, 02 May 2011 01:00

Civil Wars - May 2011 Artist To Watch

John Paul White and Joy Williams hail from very different parts of the country (Alabama and California, respectively), and have both have been free spirits when it comes to their solo music careers. But when the two crossed paths at a song-writing camp in Nashville, the rest, as they say, is history. Both knew that they had some special collaborative magic, and they've managed to mix their song-writing styles into something truly moving. Their full-length debut, Barton Hollow, was released just this past February, and its emotional chamber-folk showcases the perfectly matched vocals of the duo. Gaining notoriety after their single "Poison and Wine" was featured on Grey's Anatomy, White and Williams have also been building a strong fan base with their electrifying performances across the country.

Published in 2011

The Head and the Heart was formed after five twenty somethings met at an open mic night in Seattle. Coming from school, day jobs, and other states to meet at an open mic night, the members of The Head and The Heart recognized they had something special right from the start.

Published in 2011

Secret Sisters, XPN's Artist To Watch, November 2010

The Secret Sisters are off to a good start in the music world. Backed by the legendary Jack White, their debut album (produced by White) was just released via Third Man Records. It's full of old-time country and folk, complete with a Johnny Cash cover and the two sisters' take on "Wabash Cannonball."{readmorelink}Read More...{/readmorelink}

Published in 2010

This Philly-based trio, originally formed while guitarist Tommy Siegel, pianist Ben Thornewill, and drummer Jesse Kristin were in college in Washington, D.C. – is described as whimsical, quirky, energetic indie band featuring melodic pop tunes driven by a sizzling rock momentum.

Published in 2010

Singer-songwriter Lissie (Maurus), who was born and raised in the heart of Illinois right beside the Mississippi River, is readily known for her soulful, blues infused Americana tunes.

Published in 2010

Born, raised, and tested in the mecca for American rock 'n' roll, Seattle, Washington, Minus The Bear is just about ready to explode. The 5-piece group, consisting of members Jake Snider (guitar, lead vocals), Dave Knudson (guitar), Alex Rose (keyboards, backing vocals), Cory Murchy (bass), and Erin Tate (drums), joined forces in 2001, and after a myriad of EP's and LP's, have finally found their true sound.

Published in 2010

A product of New Orleans' historical and musical Treme neighborhood, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews has been a musician since he was smaller than the trombone he plays. A bandleader by the age of 16, Andrews attracts both older and younger generations of fans with his virtuosity and energy.

Published in 2010

Banjo-spiked British folk-rockers Mumford & Sons released their breakout album to an overwhelmingly enthusiastic crowd of fans and critics. Striking the UK charts at #11, these guys are bound for bigger things. After bonding over a profound affinity for country, bluegrass and folk music, four friends Marcus Mumford, Country Winston, Ben Lovett and Ted Dwane began

Published in 2010

When Philadelphia's own Free Energy formed in 2008, they lived in relative darkness before deciding to step into the light a year ago. Upon their arrival, the five piece outfit was met with an enormous amount of buzz, and with the release of their debut album, they are taking the rock world by storm in 2010.

Published in 2010
Tuesday, 30 March 2010 12:30

Dawes: WXPN's April 2010 Artist to Watch

The debut album North Hills from the local LA quartet Dawes (featuring members of the old Record Collection Simon Dawes) fringes with a blend of classic 70's folk-rock and contemporary embellishments. Ultimately this clever mixture evokes a sense of nostalgia and refreshing anticipation all at the same time.

Published in 2010
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