Bands to watch for 2008
Tuesday, January 8th, 2008New year, new tips for the hottest new music talent and bands. The BBC have compiled a Sound of 2008 poll, using tips from critics and broadcasters. Heres the top 5. Are there any bands you think should be on here? Let us know!
1. ADELE
This 19-year-old acoustic singer-songwriter is pigeon holed in the same bracket as Amy Winehouse and Kate Nash. Her style is youthful love songs with a poignant and soulful voice.
The panel say: “Adele’s voice melted our hearts when we first heard her.”
8Ball rating: 6/10
2. DUFFY
This Welsh soul singer has been dubbed the new Dusty Springfield. With her classic, rough round the edges style and rousing vocals, she could have stepped straight out of a grainy 1960s music TV show. We think her sound touches on the master Phil Spector.
The panel say: “You can’t help but be amazed that such a powerful voice can come from such a little person.”
8Ball rating: We like! 8/10
3. THE TING TINGS
Boy-girl duo Katie White and Jules De Martino, who play jagged, lo fi tunes who’s mix of pop sensibility and indie credibility has generated much buzz.
The panel say: “They have huge tunes, untouchable Manc street cred and a sassy charm that puts others to shame.”
8Ball rating: Can’t see them lasting the year, we think they’re a bit of a fad 4/10
4. GLASVEGAS
This Glaswegian four-piece play vintage rock with brooding guitars, like the “Jesus & Mary Chain covering the Grease soundtrack”.
NME magazine said they had put out the best debut single since the Arctic Monkeys.
The panel say “Glasvegas already sound like a classic band.” Jonas Woost, Last.FM head of music
8Ball rating: 7/10 but is 2008 ready for doo-wop and ’50s rock ‘n’ roll?
5. FOALS
A punk-funk five-piece from Oxford who build intelligent indie with layers of pulsating guitars and beats, who say their influences lie are outside the mainstream and defy the conventional approach at every turn.
The panel says: “There’s enough depth to suggest they could be around for some time.”
8Ball rating: The juries still out, 7/10