Ben Cohen gives his predictions for the most interesting bands and artists to make an impact in 2009.
Even though these BMX-riding Chicago rappers have already made a bit of a scene this year with their debut LP The Bake Sale, I can only foresee bigger and better things for these self-entitled “black Beastie Boys”.
Wavves
As hard as it is to believe, Wavves consists of merely one dude from San Diego, Nathan Williams, and his slightly deranged musical imagination. With his unique lo-fi take on scruffy beach anthems, his latest LP due out early 09, is sure to make plenty of waves (sorry, couldn’t help it) in 09.
Signed to Lupe Fiasco’s label, Gemstones seems destined to be the next big thing out the thriving Chicago hip-hop scene. Known for rhymes with substance, he’s just a sold out US tour, and his upcoming Troubles of the World is sure to rocket Gemstones within monetary range of purchasing a fair few gems of his own. We’ll have to wait for the New Year to see whether he charms the discerning UK audience.
Ra Ra Riot
Garnering a whole heap of press buzz through their support of Vampire Weekend during their current tour of the UK, Ra Ra Riot look set to be the next New York band to make it big in the UK. Their debut LP The Rhumb Line is essential listening.
Saving the best for last, Aussie electronic super-group Empire of the Sun is made up of Nick Littlemore of Pnau (who Elton John has lavished plenty of praise on recently) and Luke Steele of The Sleepy Jackson. Debut single ‘Walking on a Dream’ is, in my humble opinion, the best thing to happen in ‘08, and the extravagant video clip, shot in Shanghai, is well worth a YouTube look-see. Their eponymous album is currently due for release in the UK early 09, and may be a contestant for album of the year. Watch this space!
Ben Cohen
