Monday 1 September 2014

Between the mainstream and the indie scene

As the title suggests, I am taking a minute to talk about some artists that are between the indie scene and mainstream. I love a good band or solo artist, and I am big believer in sharing good music. There are of course some very talented people out there who hover between internet fame but no so much with traditional outlets, so let me introduce you to some wonderful artists worth knowing:

1) Scott Bradlee & Postmodern Jukebox

What it says on the tin! Bradlee, a composer and pianist, has taken to adapting popular music to big band style tunes with Postmodern Jukebox. Perfect for anyone who wishes they were born in the first half of the 1900s. Listening to SB&PJ you'll want to start organising prohibition parties and shopping for flapper dresses. However, the best part of their covers is they vary their style. Mainly known for big band, they have also covered songs in country, Yiddish, and 1950's sock hop style.

Covers to note: 'Drunk in Love' (big band style) and 'Talk Dirty to Me' (Yiddish style)

2) Dead Cat Bounce

The band split last year but they are definitely worth the mention! Consider The Lonely Island. Now imagine they were Irish. Yes, that. I mention them because, although they are disbanded, you can listen to them over and over on YouTube and enjoy their special brand of comedy music. The lads are said to still work together on writing films, so who knows, maybe they shall grace our lives with their music once again.

Songs to play on repeat: 'Rugby' and 'Christians in Love'

3) Birdeatsbaby

This wonderful orchestral-rock-pop quartet are quirk and talent personified. They sound big - epic in a way - and wonderfully dark. Care to see what I mean? Listen and learn more here.

Songs to note: 'The Trouble' and 'Rosary'