8 Bands You Should Be Listening to Now ...

1. The 1975

On iTunes: itunes.apple.com

A band I’m sure you’ve heard of but, if not, a major band you should be listening to is The 1975. This group of four young gentlemen from Manchester has an album full of the most adorable songs. Their first single is called ‘Chocolate’. Seriously! It doesn’t take much more than naming a song after my favorite thing to get me to pay attention! The point, though, is that they held my attention and the attention of many fans all over the world. I recently saw these guys live and, I’ve got to say, they put on a fun show! Though their music is alternative in nature, there are clear funky, soulful influences. Their debut album, The 1975 is beautifully catchy and playful. There is just enough late 80s - mid-90s style pop to keep things catchy.

2. Local Natives

On iTunes: itunes.apple.com

Don't let the name fool you - are they local or native? Is that redundant? Where are they right now? - These kids are great. Native to Los Angeles (see what I did there?), their songs are percussive and sweeping with a lot of prominent piano, which I'm a sucker for. Their harmonies are out of control. Their latest album is Hummingbird with songs like 'Heavy Feet' and 'You and I,' which are beautiful. But don't forget to check out their previous album, Gorilla Manor, featuring awesome cuts like 'Airplanes'. This band has been around for a little while, so you have a selection of quality tunes to check out.

3. White Denim

On iTunes: itunes.apple.com

This group is from Austin, Texas, which is a big win for them. Great music comes out of Austin, ends up in Austin, and hovers around Austin. Their collection of songs is very eclectic. They are super psychedelic and a touch hard to describe. Maybe like if you threw Minus The Bear, The Black Keys and The Doors into a blender and then added a little more jazz and a dash of country and you might have something that sounds a little bit like White Denim. My point is that they have really created their own sound, and it's a sound you've got to hear.

4. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr

On iTunes: itunes.apple.com

This fine duo is from Detroit, MI. Thumping beats and pretty little harmonies buzz all over their tunes. Their latest EP, Patterns, is short, sweet, and magical. The songs are built in ways that make them impossible not to sing along with. For just a moment you might just feel like life is bearable. It could be the subtle 60's undertones or perhaps the occasional orchestral clips. Either way, give Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. a listen even if you're not a Nascar fan. (Hey, don't hate! I actually love watching Nascar!)

5. The Babies

On iTunes: itunes.apple.com

Summer may be over, but I’m always craving a good summer-sounding band. If you're looking for tunes to help you reminisce about summer days, look no further than The Babies. Apparently a matchup of one member each from The Vivian Girls and the band Woods, The Babies has that dangerous summer night in the 50s sound.

6. J Roddy Walston and the Business

On iTunes: itunes.apple.com

Another great band to be conscious of is J Roddy Walston and The Business. This Midwestern US band has a sound that’s a little bit country and a lot-a-bit rock’n roll. They have a fun backwoods-y sound that goes crazy at times when Walston goes into a full screech. I know that sounds uncomfortable for the eardrums, but if you like music that rocks, you might just enjoy it. Start with their single ‘Heavy Bells’ for a good taste of their sound.

7. London Grammar

On iTunes: itunes.apple.com

If you like Florence +The Machine – and let’s be honest, there aren’t a lot of people that don’t – give a listen to London Grammar. Their sound is a tad bit softer than Florence + The Machine, but the lead singer has a similar powerful voice. Their cover of Kavinsky’s ‘Nightcall’ is eerie like the original but with a compelling sweetness. You’re going to love their sound!

8. Haim

On iTunes: itunes.apple.com

These three sisters are taking the world by storm with their debut album ‘Days Are Gone.’ Their songs are irresistible, begging to be sung along with. It has been said that Haim is reminiscent of the band Fleetwood Mac. In my opinion they are a touch more soulful than Fleetwood Mac with lyrics that offer what’s lacking in a lot of today’s pop music. I’m sure by now you’ve heard their first single ‘The Wire’ leaping up the charts, but don’t miss out on the rest of the album.

If you’ve been searching for new music to listen to, give a few of these bands a try. You’ll be jamming and singing all day long! Have you heard any fun bands lately? Is there a new song you just can’t stop listening to? Share your new favorite tunes!