10 Artists to Watch at SXSW 2010

Another band with a hot 2010 album and a ridiculous number of SXSW shows planned, L.A.’s Local Natives play layered, well-harmonized, vaguely rustic pop that recalls Grizzly Bear

Local Natives – Another band with a hot 2010 album and a ridiculous number of SXSW shows planned, L.A.’s Local Natives play layered, well-harmonized, vaguely rustic pop that recalls Grizzly Bear.

Surfer Blood – In 2009, Surfer Blood was the band with that one really catchy song (“Swim”) and yet another beach-themed name; this year, they’ve already released a well-received debut album, Astro Coast, and started headlining sold-out shows. They will be bringing their sunny, hook-filled Floridian pop to approximately a billion shows at SXSW this year.

Freelance Whales – If you missed Freelance Whales’ much-blogged-about recent performance on a Brooklyn subway platform, you’ll have plenty of chances to hear their endearing orchestral pop in Austin.

Washed Out – Even if you’re totally burned out on whatever-fi whatever-core by now, it’s worth checking out Ernest Green’s fuzzy, evocative electronic pop.

Twin Atlantic – Fans of Glasvegas, Frightened Rabbit, The Twilight Sad, and We Were Promised Jetpacks: meet your next favorite angsty Scottish rock band, Twin Atlantic. You can never have too many soaring yet gritty choruses sung in an irresistible Scottish accent, right?

Slow Club – This adorable boy-girl folk-pop duo from the UK writes songs that are sometimes mellow and sometimes rollicking, but always sweet, honest, and full of pretty harmonies and hooks.

Those Darlins – These three Tennessee women know how to tear up a stage with their energetic blend of country and garage rock.

Unicorn Kid – Speaking of dance parties, keep an out eye for Unicorn Kid, the Scottish 18-year-old electronic artist known for sporting a lion hat when he plays. His caffeinated 8-bit/chiptune pop is insanely addictive.

Grass Widow – The three SF ladies in Grass Widow play sweet, catchy surf-garage-punk.

by Kiri Oliver