Emerging Artists Poised for Mainstream Success in 2019

As we look ahead to 2019, a number of smaller artists and bands are making intriguing waves in the music industry. From indie rock to psychedelic and alternative sounds, these emerging talents show significant promise for achieving wider recognition and mainstream success. In this article, we will explore a few key artists and bands that have already caught our attention.

Snail Mail: A New Voice in Indie Rock

Based in the United States, Snail Mail is an indie rock band that recently released their full-length debut album Lush in 2018. Their music has been compared to both Pavement and Sonic Youth, two legendary bands known for their unique and layered indie rock sound. The band has been performing live and making a name for themselves in the indie music scene. Their most recent live performance can be seen on Audiotree, where they showcase their compelling blend of indie rock.

Among the standout tracks from their debut album, Pristine is a standout that perfectly encapsulates the intensity and layering found in Snail Mail's sound. Listen to their performance on Spotify or YouTube for a taste of their distinctive style.

Steve Gunn: Master Guitarist and Songwriter

Steve Gunn is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter who brings a unique texture to his music. His guitar playing is said to be unparalleled, with compositions that feel both familiar and fresh. Gunn's music evokes the essence of a lone motorcyclist journeying on unknown roads. Some of his essential albums include Eyes on the Line and Way out Weather. These albums showcase Gunn's exceptional guitar skills and his unique musical style.

Brian Jonestown Massacre: The Modern Psychedelic Experience

Brian Jonestown Massacre (BJM) is a 90s band that, despite being dormant for many years, shows no signs of losing their relevance. BJM blends 60s-70s era psychedelic rock with shoegaze and indie rock influences, creating a hypnotic and dreamy sound. Their albums Tepid Peppermints and Something Else demonstrate why they are a must-listen for fans of vintage psychedelic rock. This band remains an active and relevant act in today's music scene.

The Black Angels: Psychedelic Blues Rock

The Black Angels add a fierce and energetic twist to the psychedelic sound by drawing inspiration from bands like The Doors and 13th Floor Elevators. Their albums Passover, Phosphene Dream, and Death Song offer a powerful and haunting sound that will leave listeners engrossed. The Black Angels bring a unique blend of psychedelic blues rock to the table, making them a standout act in the current music landscape.

The Jayhawks and Counting Crows: Alt Country and Rock

The Jayhawks and Counting Crows bring a rougher edge to alt-country and rock music. While The Jayhawks can be seen as a more melodic answer to Eagles, with a profound impact on the alt-country genre, Counting Crows are lesser-known entrepreneurs of 90s alternative rock. Their albums Hollywood Town Hall, Teddy Dreams, and Tomorrow the Green Grass showcases their exceptional melodic abilities. Counting Crows continue to produce new music and remain popular, just like REM, another visionary alternative rock band.

Assembly of the Dust and AOD: Updated Jam Band Sound

Assembly of the Dust (AOD) and Strangefolk share a lead singer and songwriter, Reid Genauer. AOD blends jam band music with elements of Grateful Dead, Little Feat, and even a jazzy touch from Steely Dan. Their albums The Honest Hour, Some Assembly Required, and Lore are essential listens for fans of updated jam band sounds. AOD's outstanding guitar and keyboard work, combined with Reid's vocals, make them a notable act in the modern indie rock scene.

Richard Thompson: A Legend Refining His Craft

Richard Thompson is a 60s singer and songwriter who remains one of the most enigmatic and talented musicians active today. He was a founding member of the seminal Brit Folk rock band Fairport Convention. Though relatively unknown compared to his contemporaries, Thompson's unmatched guitar skills place him in the same league as Beck, Clapton, and Page. His solo albums, such as Shoot Out the Lights, are highly recommended.

The Feelies: Pioneers of Alternative and Shoegaze

The Feelies, a band from the 70s that continues to be active today, laid the groundwork for alternative rock and shoegaze. Bands such as REM and Yo La Tengo would not exist without the contributions of The Feelies. Their albums Crazy Rhythms and The Good Earth exemplify the innovative sounds they helped create. The Feelies' origin as a precursor to shoegaze is a testament to their enduring impact on modern rock music.

As we look to 2019, these smaller artists and bands are well-positioned to make their mark on the music industry. Whether it's the atmospheric indie rock of Snail Mail, the unique guitar work of Steve Gunn, the modern psychedelic rock of Brian Jonestown Massacre, or the innovative sounds of The Black Angels, these acts have the potential to achieve mainstream success by captivating new audiences and fans.