Sparks

Where they’re from: Pacific Palisades, California,

Who they are: Sparks is an American pop and rock duo formed by brothers Ron (keyboards) and Russell Mael (vocals) in Los Angeles. The duo is known for their quirky approach to songwriting; their music is often accompanied by sophisticated and acerbic lyrics, often about women, and sometimes containing literary references, and an idiosyncratic, theatrical stage presence, typified by the contrast between Russell’s animated, hyperactive frontman antics and Ron’s deadpan scowling. Russell Mael has a distinctive wide-ranging voice, while Ron Mael plays keyboards in an intricate and rhythmic style. They have been much more successful in Europe than in their native US, though they maintain a loyal cult following in the States. Their frequently changing styles and visual presentations have kept the band at the forefront of modern, artful pop music. – Wikipedia

Years active: 1966–present

Essential albums: Kimono My House (1974), Propaganda (1974), No. 1 In Heaven (1979)