Ra Ra Riot. Photo: Sarah Cass
Ra Ra Riot
by Meg
New York's Ra Ra Riot are a one-of-a-kind band who have the rare ability to mix catchy, sing-a-long tunes with the ingenuity and imagination of a group destined to go far. Fans of Arcade Fire and British Sea Power will love these guys, and their live shows are as exciting and passionate as their music suggests. Having been holed up in the studio for the last few months with producer Ryan Hadlock (Gossip, Blonde Redhead, Islands) they'll be releasing their debut album The Rhumb Line this autumn. Tracks to watch out for include the single-worthy Each Year, Dying Is Fine and St Peter's Day Festival.
Zun Zun Egui
Zun Zun Egui
by Alex
Often described as tropical thrash, Zun Zun Egui's music encompasses Fela Kuti-like grooves and African guitars with rock sensibilities and flavourful multi-instrumentalism. Despite being one of those bands to be lazily labelled as 'world music', they're a very far cry from the confused assimilation of cultural stylings implied by the term. Infectious, astonishing and certain to make the heart pound at a live show.
Michael McIntyre
Michael McIntyre
by Adele
Definitely a rising star on the comedy circuit, Michael McIntyre is a must see if you're into observational comedy. Drawing brilliantly on his family life experiences, his consistently funny act shows signs of Lee Evans excellence and his amazing quick wit creates an instant rapport with any audience. Already tipped for greatness, Michael McIntyre is certainly one to catch at a small venue near you before he becomes too big!
See Michael McIntyre tour dates >
The Roots
The Roots
by Jo
The Roots are one of the most influential Hip Hop acts around. Boasting 8 phenomenal albums, starting with Organix in 1993 to Rising Down released last April, they are famed for a having a jazzy, eclectic approach to hip-hop which includes live instrumentation which is exactly what you are in store for when you see them perform live. The band tours extensively, and their live sets are frequently hailed as the best in the genre. Inspiring, varied, funky and fresh, The Roots are definitely one to catch.
