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21 "Subterranean" Bands That Changed My Life
There is a little-known program on MTV2 called "Subterranean" that remains the only hour left in either MTV for truly good music. It's 'little-known' primarily because it features underground alternative bands and musicians (hence "Subterranean"), but also because finding it actually ON your television is a feat in and of itself. For years, "Subterranean" (formerly a two-hour program known as 120 minutes, shortened, evidently, because MTV hates music) had a regular scheduling at 1:00 A.M., late Sunday or early Monday, depending on your interpretation.
When I got into the show in summer of '04, just after high school, I could never watch it, because my campus didn't have MTV2 and I was always back at school when it aired. That never stopped me, as I found track listings week by week and got my hands on every song I even remotely liked, amassing twenty amazing mixes over the course of three years. I regrettably got out of the habit in the summer of '07, but I've recently gotten very much back in and I'm loving every minute of it.
"Subterranean", more than anything or anyone else, has had a deeply profound impact on my music tastes, and--considering the depth of my obsession--by extension, my life. Over the five and a half years since I got into the show, I've run out to the store and immediately bought albums by over 50 bands, and have amassed a collection of 600 songs as of 2007 (I haven't gotten caught up yet but I'm getting there!). Not only has it done wonders for my musical taste, but I've earned myself the nickname "The Music Prophet" among friends who actually take care to indulge my obsessive track-sharing and name-dropping (I only bothered because I desperately wanted company at the lives shows!). A lot of the bands on the show did have a habit of rapidly breaking into the big leagues shortly after I discovered them.
Some of those are listed below, but the list also includes some bands which may still be under the radar, yet important to me. Why 21? Because that happens to be the average number of tracks I can fit onto a normal mix CD, and I thought there was some kind of poetry in making that the list number. I could add more, I really could. This is limiting myself:
21. Architecture in Helsinki
Debut Video: "Do the Whirlwind"
First Discovered: 2005
The awkwardly-named Architecture in Helsinki is a unique band of young Aussies that I stumbled upon back when it was an eight-member amalgam of sound. Since 2006, it has been neatly trimmed down to a much more manageable five-member piece without altering their sound too much. Led by lead singer Cameron Bird's wispy, often reedy voice, and presenting us with tunes that are whimsical and hailing back to childhood playfulness, AiH is definitely not aiming for mass appeal, yet there's something comforting in that sound nonetheless. Perhaps it's the fact that the multi-talented band members lend their talents to each album through a multitude of instruments they can play, including tubas, trumpets, recorders, and even a glockenspiel! I'm sure diehard alt rock snobs will have a thousand comparisons but I truly have never heard another band like Architecture in Helsinki.
20. Chromeo
Debut Video: "Momma's Boy"
First Discovered: 2008
I didn't actually discover Chromeo on Subterranean, or at all actually. He was a recommendation by a friend, made about the same time he debuted on Subterranean (when I wasn't watching consistently), but he has been a Subterranean favorite ever since and after listening to just one song (ANY song) you can see why. Over the past few years I've seen bands attempting to rejuvenate the hair band phase of the '80s, to varying degrees of success and employing various amounts of irony. Chromeo is bringing back the electronic phase of the '80s, and as far as I know, he is the only one to successfully do so. Listening to an album by the Canadian duo, my sister, with raised eyebrows, asked me why I as listening to random '80s crap, and I just smiled. Why, indeed. Chromeo is bringing our past into the future, and you'd be a fool not to be there.
19. The Helio Sequence
Debut Video: "Everyone Knows Everyone"
First Discovered: 2005
I haven't heard any rock band use a harmonica like The Helio Sequence does. When I heard "Everyone Knows Everyone" I immediately went out and purchased the Love and Distance album and was blown away by the first track, appropriately and simply titled "The Harmonica Song." The band is a duo from Oregon, half of whom have an extensive history with Modest Mouse, so the comparisons to the more prolific band (and believe me, comparisons can easily be made) are apt. In a good way, of course. Melodic and moody, the album was a good 'summer' album, and I look forward to whatever else the band has to offer. Apparently the lead singer damaged his voice and had to 'relearn' how to sing for their latest album, but as I have yet to listen to it, I cannot say whether it has evolved into something better or worse.
18. The Raconteurs
Debut Video: "Steady As She Goes"
First Discovered: 2006
From the very first time the video aired on Subterranean, I was intrigued. Mostly because one of the two lead singers was Jack White, of White Stripes fame, and Brendan Benson, of his own self-titled fame, and I had no idea what the two were doing together under a completely foreign name. It was only after I looked up the awesomely-named Raconteurs that I found out the two Detroit-area artists (Brendan Benson is actually from Royal Oak--REPRESENT!) were friends, and decided to collaborate on this side project (with two other former members of a band called Greenhornes), which has become a rather large side project these past few years. I for one am thrilled, because while I enjoyed Brendan Benson and The White Stripes separately (both were also Subterranean favorites going way back), neither one exactly thrilled me. The White Stripes are good at making cool-sounding hits, but not my type, and Brendan Benson just wasn't clicking for me. Together, they are dynamic, and could go as far as Jack White's original claim to fame, if they would only stick to it, but unfortunately they have set the band aside for the time being to return to their old projects.
17. Kings of Leon
Debut Video: "Four Kicks"
First Discovered: 2005
Say what you will about radio whores, Kings of Leon, but I am still coming around to the idea that they are international superstars. Back when they first had their videos pimped on Subterranean, I was interested, but only casually. I sought out each of their singles, and enjoyed the southern-alt-rock style, but never enough to seek out all their albums. Three short years later, they don't come up in conversation without someone having an opinion on the degree to which they've sold out. When this first started happening, I was surprised. I don't listen to the radio, and wasn't aware their sound had evolved into something more mass-appealing, so it was an utter shock to me when I looked up ticket prices at their Detroit-based concert and saw a price tag of $50. Surely this wasn't the same crazy little indie band that released kicky two-minute tracks like "Four Kicks"? Sure, they sound different now, and sure, they've sold out a bit, but I still think they sound good, whether they're underground and kicking ass, or in the spotlight and... well, still kicking ass. At least they can say they are the most famous hicksters (that is southern hipsters, for the unaware) on the market these days. They're even all related! Way to keep it in the family, guys!
16. M83
Debut Video: "Teen Angst"
First Discovered: 2005
Experimental electronic band M83 is named for a galaxy, and the French group is just about as spacey as you'd expect, given this piece of trivia. Their music is soft, alluring, and often beautiful, evoking a pensive mood and maybe a fair bit of nostalgia to a bygone youth. Every single song I've heard just strikes me as amazing. While they are not a band I would listen to constantly, as I fear I would be lulled into submission every time, they are definitely worth their weight in sheer talent gold. They make some pretty awesome videos too, particularly "We Own the Sky", a video of a bunch of hipsters flying kites in a field interrupted by mysterious shapes in the sky. I always look forward to the latest M83 track on "Subterranean," and if you haven't heard them yet, you should, because they'll change your view of indie electronica, assuming you had any sort of views to begin with.
15. World Leader Pretend
Debut Video: "Bang Theory"
First Discovered: 2005
I recall listening to World Leader Pretend's album Punches for the first time while driving down I-75 on my commute to work in Grand Rapids. While nothing about freeway-driving is particularly remarkable on a normal date, this was mid-October and that one glorious week you get in Michigan where all the leaves of trees have changed and not yet descended from the limbs of trees, a hodgepodge of greens and reds and yellows and oranges and browns that attacked the senses. It was on my first listen of Punches that I noticed this distinctive fall feature, and the medley of hues combined with the medley of melody that was World Leader Pretend's biggest album just struck me as incomprehensibly gorgeous. This album has and forever will be my quintessential "fall album." It was always so easy to call things "summer albums" but I never had that feeling for autumn before then. The mixture of sounds and mixed bag vocabulary World Leader Pretend employs on this album is astonishing. Honestly, what other band out there has songs with titles like "Tit for Tat" and "Appassionato"? The band, named for an R.E.M. song, by the way, evidently broke up in 2008, unsurprisingly due to 'creative differences' so it would appear Punches might be the only evidence to this short-lived band's unnoticed brilliance.
14. My Chemical Romance
Debut Video: "I'm Not OK (I Promise)"
First Discovered: 2004
Known today for their Gothic emo power-punk ballads that have catapulted them into the public eye, I discovered My Chemical Romance back in June of 2004 after the release of their album Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge and put them on my very first Subterranean mix that summer. The song took a bit of time to grow on me, but I loved the video. At times playful, at times serious, MCR's music is the perfect soundtrack for the emo set, and I have no doubt they will stand the test of time as an essential piece of this generation. Since their music was not really my style, I resisted at first, but eventually I gave in. It may not be groundbreaking, but their music is fun, oftentimes a good 'angry album' when you're in that kind of a mood, and more than anything else? They're just such nice guys! Seriously, no matter how you write it, the boys of My Chemical Romance are just all around sweet, friendly guys, and that's pretty hard to turn down.
13. Owl City
Debut Video: "Fireflies"
First Discovered: 2009
I probably don't have to explain who Owl City is, because "Fireflies" and all subsequent singles were pretty much instantaneous hits, but some people may still not realize it's just one guy, and he's my age at that! I for one an impressed that this unassuming snyth-loving musician from Minnesota, Adam Young, should suddenly hit it big time, but he's definitely earned it. His tunes are catchy, well-written, uplifting, and downright adorable, occasionally indulging in some groan-worthy but equally precious puns. Listening to Owl City is like binging on musical candy, and I for one would totally give myself diabetes. That probably makes it sound like a bad thing, but I suppose it just means you should indulge in reasonable doses. The cuteness lasts a good long while before you need something heavier. Still, I regret not being able to see Owl City when they were around this spring, and I hope the sophomore album is as good as the first.
12. The Killers
Debut Video: "Somebody Told Me"
First Discovered: 2004
Another song from my first Subterranean mix, I first heard "Somebody Told Me" back in June of 2004, and I knew I wanted more. Their hit album Hot Fuss did not disappoint, nor did subsequent albums. Lead singer Brandon Flowers' voice is unique and enticing, and the songs are catchy and stylish, hailing back to '80s pop in a lot of ways, while still paving the way for new music styles. Brandon Flowers may be letting his ego inflate a little too much, as he has apparently engaged in a few rock rivalries, but if he can keep it in check, I can definitely see The Killers getting even bigger. It may be too early to tell, but if Brandon Flowers is the next Rod Stewart or Mick Jagger I'd like to say I called it way back when...
11. Phoenix
Debut Video: "Everything is Everything"
First Discovered: 2005
Phoenix has been getting a lot of exposure lately, with their song "1901" featured in a Cadillac commercial, and others being played in TV shows and movie trailers, but before this was happening, I would have placed bets on this band becoming a mega hit. Everything about this French alt-rock band is just perfect for the spotlight. The lyrics are good, the singing is melodic and pleasant, and the tunes equally so. Of all the bands I've loved and promoted to friends from Subterranean, Phoenix is the one I've been the most sure of becoming a sensation. If you haven't heard of them yet, you will, mark my words. If you have heard of them and you don't believe me, just listen to "You Can't Blame It On Anybody" from their 2004 album Alphabetical or "Too Young" from the Lost in Translation soundtrack.
10. Electric Six
Debut Video: "Down At McDonnellzzz"
First Discovered: 2009
It's difficult to explain the appeal of Electric Six to someone who has never heard of them or doesn't like them right off the bat. I think the best creed to have in regards to the obscure and outlandish band is... you either get them or you don't. I hate to say that, because I think it scares off a lot of people who may have given them a chance but couldn't get past the eccentricity, but really, if you can't scale back your elitist criticism and see it for the phenomenally awesome joke that it really is, then you're not fit to let Electric Six grace your airwaves. They are a Detroit-based band, which in and of itself is already a good indication of awesomeness, but that's not all. The lead singer is named Dick Valentine, their biggest hit to date is called "Gay Bar" and the video features a bevy of boxer-clad Abraham Lincolns acting ambiguously gay, and one of their albums is called I Shall Exterminate Everything Around Me that Restricts Me from Being the Master. Not sold yet? Some of the musical influences Dick cites include Queen, Black Sabbath, KISS, Devo and Talking Heads, the video for "Rubber Rocket" was filmed in Detroit-based bars and features the line "girls like you make guys like me make love to a computer," and their sound is a mixture of rock, metal, disco, funk, alternative, and just plain Awesome. They quickly made their way to the top of my 'Must Listen' list and I've been hooked ever since. I finally got the chance to see them in Detroit last winter and they did not disappoint.
9. Langhorne Slim
Debut Video: "Rebel Side of Heaven"
First Discovered: 2010
I knew after one play-through of "Rebel Side of Heaven" that I had found my new Subterranean obsession. Langhorne Slim hails from Pennyslvania but his sound is all over. Some have described it as "alternative country" but even that doesn't quite pin it down. Needless to say, I haven't heard another voice out there quite like Langhorne's and the relatively short wait I had to endure to see him live (at my favorite venue last summer) was still just far too long. I went to the show by myself because--surprise, surprise--I couldn't find anyone to go with, but even the small gathering was raucous and memorable. Langhorne snapped his guitar string on the very first chord of his opening song because he rocked too hard and it was all history from there on.
8. Ambulance LTD
Debut Video: "Primitive (The Way I Treat You)"
First Discovered: 2004
Another song from my first mix, Ambulance LTD was an all-too-regrettably short-lived alternative band that instantly snatched me up into it's sphere and didn't let go. Their self-titled album released earlier that year is one I keep coming back to over and over again... probably because it's the only album I've got. The band broke up shortly after this so there's no way of knowing how big they might have become, which is a shame, because they definitely had the potential. I would have easily compared them to Snow Patrol back in their day, and look at the latter now.
7. The Go! Team
Debut Video: "Ladyflash"
First Discovered: 2005
The Go! Team is a unique ensemble blending funk, rock, hip hop, electronic and other styles. They have a playground sound that almost makes you feel like you should be jumping rope in an alley in the 1980s, and I've no doubt they put on one heck of a live show, if only I could find them around these parts. They can get a little repetitive as some of their songs start to blend together, but it sure is one heck of a fun 40 minutes to listen to their albums from start to finish, and definitely good 'driving music.' Sure enough, they're not for everybody, but they're worth a listen for the pure energy trip alone.
6. Kasabian
Debut Video: "Club Foot"
First Discovered: 2005
I heard "Club Foot" on Subterranean shortly before the song appeared in the trailer for Joss Whedon's Serenity movie, but despite the notoriety, it's not my favorite song. It just helped open me up to a whole world of stylistic alternative tunes from this British band. most notably "Cutt Off", "Reason is Treason" and "Empire." Vocalist Tom Meighan has a unique sound and he brings lyrics to life rather dramatically. The band may take itself a bit seriously at times, but they counterbalance it with a sense of humor in their videos (the video for "Cutt Off" features people running in fear and being attacked... by what turns out to be a flying shark, and one of my favorites, "Fire", sees the band as old-timey bank robbers using guitars instead of guns with loot comprised of sheet music... genius!)
5. White Rabbits
Debut Video: "Percussion Gun"
First Discovered: 2008
It might be premature to declare the White Rabbits an influential band to my life... but the extent to which "Percussion Gun" invaded my playlists in the summer of 2009 and beyond inevitably made the entire summer for me. The song is like crack, and if you don't believe me, go and have a listen right now. With a stylish video to go with it, I was hooked from the first minute, and fervently sought out the band's live show, which did not disappoint. This band is gritty and energetic, and hopefully will be around for years to come to make more songs like this one that you just cannot. stop. listening to.
4. Snow Patrol
Debut Video: "Run"
First Discovered: 2004
"Run" didn't make it onto my first Subterranean mix through a mishap of trial and error... I was not yet accustomed to the idea that I would be making dozens more of these, so when I bought the "Final Straw" album, I saw no need to make a mix, but they have made it onto subsequent mixes. The fact that I immediately went out and bought the album should speak to the power they had over me that summer though. They grew on me over my college years and the "Eyes Open" album was on repeat during my time in Ireland (in honor of Snow Patrol's Irish roots, naturally). Needless to say, this band and its beautiful music has affected me by giving me a soundtrack to some of my most life-changing years and they're only getting bigger.
3. k-os
Debut Video: "Love Song"
First Discovered: 2005
It's not enough to say that k-os is my favorite rapper. As I don't really listen to all that much rap, it doesn't sound like much to say that k-os tops my list in that category. In truth, k-os--Kevin Brereton in real life--is one of my favorite musicians out there today. The Canadian rapper employs a wide variety of sound and it much more melodic and original than most of his genre contemporaries. He knows where he's from and has awareness of his place in the rap industry; the name itself--k-os--stands for 'knowledge of self' and it couldn't be more clear that he stands above the rest. This is a sound that moves you, both metaphorically and physically. And all of this loyalty I've banked came before I found out that he was friends with my favorite band, Sam Roberts, and frequently collaborate with the Canadian band. It was kismet; k-os and I were meant for each other. I wasn't as ecstatic with his latest offering, YES!, but the prior two albums, Atlantis: Hymns for Disco and the self-titled k-os, are among my favorites, and I terribly regret missing his show in Detroit last fall. Ah well, there's always next time.
2. We Are Scientists
Debut Video: "Inaction"
First Discovered: 2006
We Are Scientists blew onto the scene in 2006 in a fury apropos to their style. I immediately went out to buy "With Love and Squalor" and have obediently purchased every album since and will continue to until I am displeased. Originally a 3-piece until they lost their drummer (it seems they have yet to officially replace Michael Tapper), the faces of We Are Scientists are guitarist Chris Cain and lead singer (and Peter Petrelli doppelganger) Keith Murray. Every video they've made is infused with a sly sense of humor, from "Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt" where the band finds itself being chased around town by a guy in a bear costume, to the sophomore album hit "Chick Lit" where Chris and Keith are gritty old West cattle wranglers herding... pomeranians. It's tough to say whether they really are hipster douche bags or they're just having a laugh at themselves, but video and lyric alike seem to suggest rather strongly that Keith Murray is a douche bag of the highest order. I couldn't care less though--the man makes killer albums, well-crafted and well-spoken, and they deserve more praise than they get. Hopefully I can find someone to accompany me to the next show because I refuse to miss these guys.
1. John Butler Trio
Debut Video: "Zebra"
First Discovered: 2005
It's been a long time since I first heard "Zebra" yet it feels like I've been acquainted with the John Butler Trio even longer than these 6 years because my compendium of JBT music is so expansive and all-encompassing that they make me feel at home. John Butler is an Aussie and a hippie of the first order, practically dropped straight from the 1960s onto our doorsteps to remind us of how our values of strayed. In fact, he'd probably fit right in to the 1960s music scene; in any case, he has the makings of a legendary rocker in him and I have faith he'll still be around thirty years from now reminding us not to stray too far from ourselves and protect our Mother Earth. JBT has been accused of 'selling out' over the years but frankly I think they still sound the same, with only slight tinges of mainstream influence. No matter how they sound now, they could never undo the positive feeling garnered from that first single that graced my ears back in '05. "I could be anything I put my mind to, oh all I gotta do is be myself I got a chance. I could bring love back into my life and share it with the world if I got some balance." Simple words never sounded so fine.
There is a little-known program on MTV2 called "Subterranean" that remains the only hour left in either MTV for truly good music. It's 'little-known' primarily because it features underground alternative bands and musicians (hence "Subterranean"), but also because finding it actually ON your television is a feat in and of itself. For years, "Subterranean" (formerly a two-hour program known as 120 minutes, shortened, evidently, because MTV hates music) had a regular scheduling at 1:00 A.M., late Sunday or early Monday, depending on your interpretation.
When I got into the show in summer of '04, just after high school, I could never watch it, because my campus didn't have MTV2 and I was always back at school when it aired. That never stopped me, as I found track listings week by week and got my hands on every song I even remotely liked, amassing twenty amazing mixes over the course of three years. I regrettably got out of the habit in the summer of '07, but I've recently gotten very much back in and I'm loving every minute of it.
"Subterranean", more than anything or anyone else, has had a deeply profound impact on my music tastes, and--considering the depth of my obsession--by extension, my life. Over the five and a half years since I got into the show, I've run out to the store and immediately bought albums by over 50 bands, and have amassed a collection of 600 songs as of 2007 (I haven't gotten caught up yet but I'm getting there!). Not only has it done wonders for my musical taste, but I've earned myself the nickname "The Music Prophet" among friends who actually take care to indulge my obsessive track-sharing and name-dropping (I only bothered because I desperately wanted company at the lives shows!). A lot of the bands on the show did have a habit of rapidly breaking into the big leagues shortly after I discovered them.
Some of those are listed below, but the list also includes some bands which may still be under the radar, yet important to me. Why 21? Because that happens to be the average number of tracks I can fit onto a normal mix CD, and I thought there was some kind of poetry in making that the list number. I could add more, I really could. This is limiting myself:
21. Architecture in Helsinki
Debut Video: "Do the Whirlwind"
First Discovered: 2005
The awkwardly-named Architecture in Helsinki is a unique band of young Aussies that I stumbled upon back when it was an eight-member amalgam of sound. Since 2006, it has been neatly trimmed down to a much more manageable five-member piece without altering their sound too much. Led by lead singer Cameron Bird's wispy, often reedy voice, and presenting us with tunes that are whimsical and hailing back to childhood playfulness, AiH is definitely not aiming for mass appeal, yet there's something comforting in that sound nonetheless. Perhaps it's the fact that the multi-talented band members lend their talents to each album through a multitude of instruments they can play, including tubas, trumpets, recorders, and even a glockenspiel! I'm sure diehard alt rock snobs will have a thousand comparisons but I truly have never heard another band like Architecture in Helsinki.
20. Chromeo
Debut Video: "Momma's Boy"
First Discovered: 2008
I didn't actually discover Chromeo on Subterranean, or at all actually. He was a recommendation by a friend, made about the same time he debuted on Subterranean (when I wasn't watching consistently), but he has been a Subterranean favorite ever since and after listening to just one song (ANY song) you can see why. Over the past few years I've seen bands attempting to rejuvenate the hair band phase of the '80s, to varying degrees of success and employing various amounts of irony. Chromeo is bringing back the electronic phase of the '80s, and as far as I know, he is the only one to successfully do so. Listening to an album by the Canadian duo, my sister, with raised eyebrows, asked me why I as listening to random '80s crap, and I just smiled. Why, indeed. Chromeo is bringing our past into the future, and you'd be a fool not to be there.
19. The Helio Sequence
Debut Video: "Everyone Knows Everyone"
First Discovered: 2005
I haven't heard any rock band use a harmonica like The Helio Sequence does. When I heard "Everyone Knows Everyone" I immediately went out and purchased the Love and Distance album and was blown away by the first track, appropriately and simply titled "The Harmonica Song." The band is a duo from Oregon, half of whom have an extensive history with Modest Mouse, so the comparisons to the more prolific band (and believe me, comparisons can easily be made) are apt. In a good way, of course. Melodic and moody, the album was a good 'summer' album, and I look forward to whatever else the band has to offer. Apparently the lead singer damaged his voice and had to 'relearn' how to sing for their latest album, but as I have yet to listen to it, I cannot say whether it has evolved into something better or worse.
18. The Raconteurs
Debut Video: "Steady As She Goes"
First Discovered: 2006
From the very first time the video aired on Subterranean, I was intrigued. Mostly because one of the two lead singers was Jack White, of White Stripes fame, and Brendan Benson, of his own self-titled fame, and I had no idea what the two were doing together under a completely foreign name. It was only after I looked up the awesomely-named Raconteurs that I found out the two Detroit-area artists (Brendan Benson is actually from Royal Oak--REPRESENT!) were friends, and decided to collaborate on this side project (with two other former members of a band called Greenhornes), which has become a rather large side project these past few years. I for one am thrilled, because while I enjoyed Brendan Benson and The White Stripes separately (both were also Subterranean favorites going way back), neither one exactly thrilled me. The White Stripes are good at making cool-sounding hits, but not my type, and Brendan Benson just wasn't clicking for me. Together, they are dynamic, and could go as far as Jack White's original claim to fame, if they would only stick to it, but unfortunately they have set the band aside for the time being to return to their old projects.
17. Kings of Leon
Debut Video: "Four Kicks"
First Discovered: 2005
Say what you will about radio whores, Kings of Leon, but I am still coming around to the idea that they are international superstars. Back when they first had their videos pimped on Subterranean, I was interested, but only casually. I sought out each of their singles, and enjoyed the southern-alt-rock style, but never enough to seek out all their albums. Three short years later, they don't come up in conversation without someone having an opinion on the degree to which they've sold out. When this first started happening, I was surprised. I don't listen to the radio, and wasn't aware their sound had evolved into something more mass-appealing, so it was an utter shock to me when I looked up ticket prices at their Detroit-based concert and saw a price tag of $50. Surely this wasn't the same crazy little indie band that released kicky two-minute tracks like "Four Kicks"? Sure, they sound different now, and sure, they've sold out a bit, but I still think they sound good, whether they're underground and kicking ass, or in the spotlight and... well, still kicking ass. At least they can say they are the most famous hicksters (that is southern hipsters, for the unaware) on the market these days. They're even all related! Way to keep it in the family, guys!
16. M83
Debut Video: "Teen Angst"
First Discovered: 2005
Experimental electronic band M83 is named for a galaxy, and the French group is just about as spacey as you'd expect, given this piece of trivia. Their music is soft, alluring, and often beautiful, evoking a pensive mood and maybe a fair bit of nostalgia to a bygone youth. Every single song I've heard just strikes me as amazing. While they are not a band I would listen to constantly, as I fear I would be lulled into submission every time, they are definitely worth their weight in sheer talent gold. They make some pretty awesome videos too, particularly "We Own the Sky", a video of a bunch of hipsters flying kites in a field interrupted by mysterious shapes in the sky. I always look forward to the latest M83 track on "Subterranean," and if you haven't heard them yet, you should, because they'll change your view of indie electronica, assuming you had any sort of views to begin with.
15. World Leader Pretend
Debut Video: "Bang Theory"
First Discovered: 2005
I recall listening to World Leader Pretend's album Punches for the first time while driving down I-75 on my commute to work in Grand Rapids. While nothing about freeway-driving is particularly remarkable on a normal date, this was mid-October and that one glorious week you get in Michigan where all the leaves of trees have changed and not yet descended from the limbs of trees, a hodgepodge of greens and reds and yellows and oranges and browns that attacked the senses. It was on my first listen of Punches that I noticed this distinctive fall feature, and the medley of hues combined with the medley of melody that was World Leader Pretend's biggest album just struck me as incomprehensibly gorgeous. This album has and forever will be my quintessential "fall album." It was always so easy to call things "summer albums" but I never had that feeling for autumn before then. The mixture of sounds and mixed bag vocabulary World Leader Pretend employs on this album is astonishing. Honestly, what other band out there has songs with titles like "Tit for Tat" and "Appassionato"? The band, named for an R.E.M. song, by the way, evidently broke up in 2008, unsurprisingly due to 'creative differences' so it would appear Punches might be the only evidence to this short-lived band's unnoticed brilliance.
14. My Chemical Romance
Debut Video: "I'm Not OK (I Promise)"
First Discovered: 2004
Known today for their Gothic emo power-punk ballads that have catapulted them into the public eye, I discovered My Chemical Romance back in June of 2004 after the release of their album Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge and put them on my very first Subterranean mix that summer. The song took a bit of time to grow on me, but I loved the video. At times playful, at times serious, MCR's music is the perfect soundtrack for the emo set, and I have no doubt they will stand the test of time as an essential piece of this generation. Since their music was not really my style, I resisted at first, but eventually I gave in. It may not be groundbreaking, but their music is fun, oftentimes a good 'angry album' when you're in that kind of a mood, and more than anything else? They're just such nice guys! Seriously, no matter how you write it, the boys of My Chemical Romance are just all around sweet, friendly guys, and that's pretty hard to turn down.
13. Owl City
Debut Video: "Fireflies"
First Discovered: 2009
I probably don't have to explain who Owl City is, because "Fireflies" and all subsequent singles were pretty much instantaneous hits, but some people may still not realize it's just one guy, and he's my age at that! I for one an impressed that this unassuming snyth-loving musician from Minnesota, Adam Young, should suddenly hit it big time, but he's definitely earned it. His tunes are catchy, well-written, uplifting, and downright adorable, occasionally indulging in some groan-worthy but equally precious puns. Listening to Owl City is like binging on musical candy, and I for one would totally give myself diabetes. That probably makes it sound like a bad thing, but I suppose it just means you should indulge in reasonable doses. The cuteness lasts a good long while before you need something heavier. Still, I regret not being able to see Owl City when they were around this spring, and I hope the sophomore album is as good as the first.
12. The Killers
Debut Video: "Somebody Told Me"
First Discovered: 2004
Another song from my first Subterranean mix, I first heard "Somebody Told Me" back in June of 2004, and I knew I wanted more. Their hit album Hot Fuss did not disappoint, nor did subsequent albums. Lead singer Brandon Flowers' voice is unique and enticing, and the songs are catchy and stylish, hailing back to '80s pop in a lot of ways, while still paving the way for new music styles. Brandon Flowers may be letting his ego inflate a little too much, as he has apparently engaged in a few rock rivalries, but if he can keep it in check, I can definitely see The Killers getting even bigger. It may be too early to tell, but if Brandon Flowers is the next Rod Stewart or Mick Jagger I'd like to say I called it way back when...
11. Phoenix
Debut Video: "Everything is Everything"
First Discovered: 2005
Phoenix has been getting a lot of exposure lately, with their song "1901" featured in a Cadillac commercial, and others being played in TV shows and movie trailers, but before this was happening, I would have placed bets on this band becoming a mega hit. Everything about this French alt-rock band is just perfect for the spotlight. The lyrics are good, the singing is melodic and pleasant, and the tunes equally so. Of all the bands I've loved and promoted to friends from Subterranean, Phoenix is the one I've been the most sure of becoming a sensation. If you haven't heard of them yet, you will, mark my words. If you have heard of them and you don't believe me, just listen to "You Can't Blame It On Anybody" from their 2004 album Alphabetical or "Too Young" from the Lost in Translation soundtrack.
10. Electric Six
Debut Video: "Down At McDonnellzzz"
First Discovered: 2009
It's difficult to explain the appeal of Electric Six to someone who has never heard of them or doesn't like them right off the bat. I think the best creed to have in regards to the obscure and outlandish band is... you either get them or you don't. I hate to say that, because I think it scares off a lot of people who may have given them a chance but couldn't get past the eccentricity, but really, if you can't scale back your elitist criticism and see it for the phenomenally awesome joke that it really is, then you're not fit to let Electric Six grace your airwaves. They are a Detroit-based band, which in and of itself is already a good indication of awesomeness, but that's not all. The lead singer is named Dick Valentine, their biggest hit to date is called "Gay Bar" and the video features a bevy of boxer-clad Abraham Lincolns acting ambiguously gay, and one of their albums is called I Shall Exterminate Everything Around Me that Restricts Me from Being the Master. Not sold yet? Some of the musical influences Dick cites include Queen, Black Sabbath, KISS, Devo and Talking Heads, the video for "Rubber Rocket" was filmed in Detroit-based bars and features the line "girls like you make guys like me make love to a computer," and their sound is a mixture of rock, metal, disco, funk, alternative, and just plain Awesome. They quickly made their way to the top of my 'Must Listen' list and I've been hooked ever since. I finally got the chance to see them in Detroit last winter and they did not disappoint.
9. Langhorne Slim
Debut Video: "Rebel Side of Heaven"
First Discovered: 2010
I knew after one play-through of "Rebel Side of Heaven" that I had found my new Subterranean obsession. Langhorne Slim hails from Pennyslvania but his sound is all over. Some have described it as "alternative country" but even that doesn't quite pin it down. Needless to say, I haven't heard another voice out there quite like Langhorne's and the relatively short wait I had to endure to see him live (at my favorite venue last summer) was still just far too long. I went to the show by myself because--surprise, surprise--I couldn't find anyone to go with, but even the small gathering was raucous and memorable. Langhorne snapped his guitar string on the very first chord of his opening song because he rocked too hard and it was all history from there on.
8. Ambulance LTD
Debut Video: "Primitive (The Way I Treat You)"
First Discovered: 2004
Another song from my first mix, Ambulance LTD was an all-too-regrettably short-lived alternative band that instantly snatched me up into it's sphere and didn't let go. Their self-titled album released earlier that year is one I keep coming back to over and over again... probably because it's the only album I've got. The band broke up shortly after this so there's no way of knowing how big they might have become, which is a shame, because they definitely had the potential. I would have easily compared them to Snow Patrol back in their day, and look at the latter now.
7. The Go! Team
Debut Video: "Ladyflash"
First Discovered: 2005
The Go! Team is a unique ensemble blending funk, rock, hip hop, electronic and other styles. They have a playground sound that almost makes you feel like you should be jumping rope in an alley in the 1980s, and I've no doubt they put on one heck of a live show, if only I could find them around these parts. They can get a little repetitive as some of their songs start to blend together, but it sure is one heck of a fun 40 minutes to listen to their albums from start to finish, and definitely good 'driving music.' Sure enough, they're not for everybody, but they're worth a listen for the pure energy trip alone.
6. Kasabian
Debut Video: "Club Foot"
First Discovered: 2005
I heard "Club Foot" on Subterranean shortly before the song appeared in the trailer for Joss Whedon's Serenity movie, but despite the notoriety, it's not my favorite song. It just helped open me up to a whole world of stylistic alternative tunes from this British band. most notably "Cutt Off", "Reason is Treason" and "Empire." Vocalist Tom Meighan has a unique sound and he brings lyrics to life rather dramatically. The band may take itself a bit seriously at times, but they counterbalance it with a sense of humor in their videos (the video for "Cutt Off" features people running in fear and being attacked... by what turns out to be a flying shark, and one of my favorites, "Fire", sees the band as old-timey bank robbers using guitars instead of guns with loot comprised of sheet music... genius!)
5. White Rabbits
Debut Video: "Percussion Gun"
First Discovered: 2008
It might be premature to declare the White Rabbits an influential band to my life... but the extent to which "Percussion Gun" invaded my playlists in the summer of 2009 and beyond inevitably made the entire summer for me. The song is like crack, and if you don't believe me, go and have a listen right now. With a stylish video to go with it, I was hooked from the first minute, and fervently sought out the band's live show, which did not disappoint. This band is gritty and energetic, and hopefully will be around for years to come to make more songs like this one that you just cannot. stop. listening to.
4. Snow Patrol
Debut Video: "Run"
First Discovered: 2004
"Run" didn't make it onto my first Subterranean mix through a mishap of trial and error... I was not yet accustomed to the idea that I would be making dozens more of these, so when I bought the "Final Straw" album, I saw no need to make a mix, but they have made it onto subsequent mixes. The fact that I immediately went out and bought the album should speak to the power they had over me that summer though. They grew on me over my college years and the "Eyes Open" album was on repeat during my time in Ireland (in honor of Snow Patrol's Irish roots, naturally). Needless to say, this band and its beautiful music has affected me by giving me a soundtrack to some of my most life-changing years and they're only getting bigger.
3. k-os
Debut Video: "Love Song"
First Discovered: 2005
It's not enough to say that k-os is my favorite rapper. As I don't really listen to all that much rap, it doesn't sound like much to say that k-os tops my list in that category. In truth, k-os--Kevin Brereton in real life--is one of my favorite musicians out there today. The Canadian rapper employs a wide variety of sound and it much more melodic and original than most of his genre contemporaries. He knows where he's from and has awareness of his place in the rap industry; the name itself--k-os--stands for 'knowledge of self' and it couldn't be more clear that he stands above the rest. This is a sound that moves you, both metaphorically and physically. And all of this loyalty I've banked came before I found out that he was friends with my favorite band, Sam Roberts, and frequently collaborate with the Canadian band. It was kismet; k-os and I were meant for each other. I wasn't as ecstatic with his latest offering, YES!, but the prior two albums, Atlantis: Hymns for Disco and the self-titled k-os, are among my favorites, and I terribly regret missing his show in Detroit last fall. Ah well, there's always next time.
2. We Are Scientists
Debut Video: "Inaction"
First Discovered: 2006
We Are Scientists blew onto the scene in 2006 in a fury apropos to their style. I immediately went out to buy "With Love and Squalor" and have obediently purchased every album since and will continue to until I am displeased. Originally a 3-piece until they lost their drummer (it seems they have yet to officially replace Michael Tapper), the faces of We Are Scientists are guitarist Chris Cain and lead singer (and Peter Petrelli doppelganger) Keith Murray. Every video they've made is infused with a sly sense of humor, from "Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt" where the band finds itself being chased around town by a guy in a bear costume, to the sophomore album hit "Chick Lit" where Chris and Keith are gritty old West cattle wranglers herding... pomeranians. It's tough to say whether they really are hipster douche bags or they're just having a laugh at themselves, but video and lyric alike seem to suggest rather strongly that Keith Murray is a douche bag of the highest order. I couldn't care less though--the man makes killer albums, well-crafted and well-spoken, and they deserve more praise than they get. Hopefully I can find someone to accompany me to the next show because I refuse to miss these guys.
1. John Butler Trio
Debut Video: "Zebra"
First Discovered: 2005
It's been a long time since I first heard "Zebra" yet it feels like I've been acquainted with the John Butler Trio even longer than these 6 years because my compendium of JBT music is so expansive and all-encompassing that they make me feel at home. John Butler is an Aussie and a hippie of the first order, practically dropped straight from the 1960s onto our doorsteps to remind us of how our values of strayed. In fact, he'd probably fit right in to the 1960s music scene; in any case, he has the makings of a legendary rocker in him and I have faith he'll still be around thirty years from now reminding us not to stray too far from ourselves and protect our Mother Earth. JBT has been accused of 'selling out' over the years but frankly I think they still sound the same, with only slight tinges of mainstream influence. No matter how they sound now, they could never undo the positive feeling garnered from that first single that graced my ears back in '05. "I could be anything I put my mind to, oh all I gotta do is be myself I got a chance. I could bring love back into my life and share it with the world if I got some balance." Simple words never sounded so fine.