Six Artists to Watch for in 2013

2012 presented another interesting year for the music industry. Sales were down, but buzz and overall want/need for music is at an all time high. Electronic dance music (EDM) put its foot down on pop and a Korean became the most downloaded YouTube sensation with a flashy dance video – which is a testament to how global music can be affected by the Internet. This year is shaping up to be more of the same, maybe a guy from Luxembourg will make a video and be the new Psy – you never heard of Lux-Pop? After the break, listen to six artists could potentially have a big 2013.

Haim – Three Los Angeles based sisters are taking a page out of Fleetwood Mac’s book and are being heralded as the next great thing for rock. Their throw back classic rock sound has the music community paying attention. They write all of their own songs, have a big release in the works, and have been relentlessly touring with some huge acts, including Mumford and Sons as well as Florence and the Machine. All things are really pointing up for these girls.

Chris Malinchak – Really, it could have been anyone on the French Express label – Jonas Rathsman, Perseus, Moon Boots, or Isaac Tichauer – but there is something about the way Malinchak constructs his tracks that has me hooked. It also helps that the infusion of disco into dance music has gotten more popular lately. Malinchak falls into this Nu-disco genre and as it gains popularity, his music will follow suit. If Pete Tong can get behind “So Good To Me,” I am game. Curious to see where he goes next, but until then his following is growing.

https://soundcloud.com/frenchexpress/chris-malinchak-so-good-to-me

Flume – Australia is a hotbed for everything cool right now and I think that will continue through 2013. As for music, the Future Classic label is making a big statement had some nice releases in 2012. The one in particular that blew me away was Flume’s self titled album. This very young DJ shows mature talent and has hit the road in the land down under to support its release. Expect him to make his way stateside in 2013.

https://soundcloud.com/flume-1/sleepless-feat-jezzabell-doran

Different Sleep – The least known on this list is one you should keep your ear to the most. This 20-year-old beat machine, hailing from San Diego, but now based in Chicago, is creating some serious mood shifting music. Using atmospheric rises and leads, and very heavy and full bass, Different Sleep has made a fan out of this listener.

Atoms for Peace – Thom Yorke (Radiohead) side project with Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers). The album “Amok” is out February 26th. If I have to explain anymore listen to Radiohead and RHCP, then get excited.

AlunaGeorge – This genre-bending duo from London brings a lot to smile about. Being one of the most blogged about artists in 2012, a major first release due out in June and placing second in BBC Sounds of 2013, AlunaGeorge may be the most in line for the biggest 2013 out of all of these artists. It also helps that Aluna Francis has an absolutely amazing voice paired with a different thinking beat weaver, George Reid.