10 Artists You Need to Know: Summer Festival Edition
Words By: Bridjet Mendyuk
Whether you’re hitting up one, two or three festivals this summer, we’ve compiled a list of bands you need to know before you hit the road. Even if you’ve decided to sit this summer out, we’ve got ten bands you can enjoy without a wristband.
If you’re going to….
Bonnaroo – Check out Brownout Presents Brown Sabbath
I’ve seen Black Sabbath live, and believe me, it’s sad. Just a bunch of pissed off seniors narrowly escaping the bus ride back to Shady Pines. Do yourself a favor and check out the funky bunch known as Brownout who add spicy bass lines that even Ozzy approves of.
Warped Tour – Check out Candy Hearts
If you’re already at Warped Tour, then you’re probably going to be at the Candy Hearts show, but for those who might miss out on a good thing; listen up. For those that don’t know, Candy Hearts are a cutesy pop-punk trio from New York who could be described as: Paramore + Bubbalicious Cotton Candy gum + a wink + a diary. If you’re a fan of New Found Glory, State Champs, or Set It Off, then CH are a must-have in your library.
Coachella – Check out Marina & The Diamonds
I.Love. Marina. And. The. Diamonds. And you should too. She’s a indie-pop artist who has more soul and flavor than most of her sugary sweet counterparts. Her deep, Welsh accent pulls through the electro-Madonna-esque beat of her songs. Also, her outfits are described as “retro cartoon-ish,” so expect an exciting visual; I’d describe her sound as that too.
South By Southwest (SXSW) – Check out All Them Witches
The Nashville natives of All Them Witches have the classic-rock, heavy riff act down to a T. What sets them apart from that blase “hip, radio rock friendly” sound is that they have a groovier, sludge inspired Queens Of The Stone Age tang to them.
Bunbury – Check out The Front Bottoms
The acoustic pop-punk band have been a Warped Tour hit for some time, but they’re moving up the ladder of notoriety ever since their 2013 release of Talon Of The Hawk.
Sasquatch! – Check out Ex Hex
The freshest group on the list, Ex Hex are an all-girl punk band from Washington, D.C. The trio just released their first album in October of 2014. The lead singer, Mary Timony, has had her share of releases though as a member of 90’s grunge band, Helium.
Governor’s Ball – Check out ASTR
New York’s indie-dance duo add a funky twist to the lead singer’s sultry voice.
Firefly – Check out The Griswolds
Indie-rock Aussies who mimic MGMT, Magic Man and Walk The Moon are making strides to becoming the next big thing in the indie scene. Their most recent album, Be Impressive, climbed to snag the #7 spot on Billboard’s Heat Seekers chart in 2014.
Beale Street – Check out Elle King
Ohio native, Elle King, has all of the charm, nostalgia and attitude of the 1920’s with her blues inspired sound and siren-like demeanor.
Hangout – Check out MisterWives
The electro-pop indie band from New York have conquered the 80’s themed dance tune. With that, they’ve mixed in jazz and soulful vocals that you can’t help but dance to.
