You didn’t get to listen to any Punxie & The Poison Pens? They’re the best thing on MySpace for miles, but you won’t hear about them because Murdoch’s papers tried to sue the lead singer. They have a song about it and all. Lucky they haven’t been deleted yet really - lucky FOR US!!!!

couple..
couple..
couple..!

2 all malaysians..
support our local band..!!
save d music industries..

owhh man..
after listen 2 all the song,
i think state of ohio and couple was good..
brilliant..keep it up..

couple sounds good. (:

Couple sounds good…

I listen to the band White Shoes and the Couples Company which is on this list because I saw some write up on the SXSW 08 site. If this is one of the best 25 bands I don’t care to venture my time with listening to the other 24. Sorry I hate to be a critic but listen to Petrified Eye here and please critic away.

http://www.myspace.com/and yfuertsch

Raining Pleasure
check them on www.myspace.com/rainingpleasur e

AMERICAS NEXT GREAT BAND-ON FOX 11. THE ROCKETS, IS GOING TO BE STAYING AT THE PALAZZO AT PARK LA BREA EAST 340-348 S. HAUSER BLVD. IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA. LAUREN, KRISTEN, KELLY AND LAUREN WILL BE JOINING THE NEXT GREAT AMERICAN BAND FINALIST. THEY MOVE IN MONDAY,OCTOBER 15TH, THEY MADE IT TO THE FINALS, THANKS ROXIE, “VANESSA GUZMAN” FOR THIS INFORMATION, I’M SURE YOU WILL GET MORE VOTES SINCE PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT THE ROCKETS AHEAD OF TIME.

www.myspace.com/ theearthtones

Yeah, I think the group is the Rockets or something, I heard about that, It was one person from that group that leaked information Roxie “Vanessa Guzman” about her goup being a Finalist and where the Bands were going to stay, before the show airs (dummy), they probaly wont be able to be on the show because Fox and American Idol is strict about contestants abiding there rules, thats a digrace, its always a bad apple in the bunch

Wow everyone is talking about how that group, the Rockets leaked information about the show and them being finalist and where they were going to stay during the taping. I guess they wanted people to recognize them before so they could win but that’s cheating, now its no suprise at all. Why would these bimbos leak information like that? I could not believe it until I read it on the first page of Rolling Stone under Americas Next Great Band. Aren’t there rules to the competition? Im pretty sure they knew that before telling, that was stupid. Anyway I love AMERICAN IDOL and one group is not going to spoil it 4 me, hopefully…

The following person who made this statement is an idiot. These bands make a two year old banging on a tin can sound remarkable. Geeezzz.
_____________________ _____________

kat | 7/26/2007, 12:54 pm EST

What a bunch of crybabies!

A contest to find the “BEST” has nothing to do with finding the most popular. Duh.

If they wanted to compile a popularity list, they could turn on MTV’s TRL, right? Oh, is that what most of you idiots do anyway?

Thought so.

I can’t believe whats become of the musicianship of new bands. As I listened, song after dreary lame song it got me wondering. Who in the hell picked these bands? Rolling Stone has been meaningless for years. This is a prime example of why.

THE BESTEST BAND ON TEH INTERWEB IS BEV KROCK!!! HTTP://WWW.MYSPACE.COM/BEVKROC K

www.myspace.com/styrofoamjunki es. Oops!

Check out the Styrofoam Junkies, they’re pretty interesting, Indie/pop band from Long Island. Not you’re run of the mill sound

www.myspace.com/styro foamjunkies

poiuk ctjwuv yhli crfjh bitfhodxe pkbmu reovlqy

thoughtcrimeband.com

What about the Dirty Pearls? http://www.myspace.com/thedirt ypearls

You should have really checked out the band “Ouachita(wash-i-ta)”!!!!They are pretty bad-ass! They are only two people in the band but they sound like 5 or 6! They also recorded the songs in their “home studio.” Completely amazing!!! Can’t wait to hear what they sound like after they put out a studio album!!! Ouachita is AWESOME!!!
www.myspace.com/ou achitajams

the airborne toxic event track is amazing. i also really like mannequins breathe.
http://www.myspace.co m/mannequinsbreathe

“High Voltage an AC/DC Tribute - Let There Be Rock

http://www.myspace .com/highvoltagenc

I am not in the band just a fan

The Review

Surprised, amazed and rocked is how I walked away after seeing High Voltage’s performance at Scooters in Raleigh, NC on Saturday, July 21, 2007.

This band is comprised of five veteran performers and players who really nail their parts. I saw AC/DC back in the early 80’s and was impressed by their showmanship, especially given the energy Angus Young displayed. I’d be lying if I went beyond that and said I was a big fan of the band. I am familiar with and like some of their music, but, there’s defenately no “fan” status to be given here. That being said, if nothing else, these boys gave me a greater appreciation for the music and the performers they emulate.

High Voltage is fronted by:
Rick Daniels, vocals; Jeff Young, lead guitar; Alan Towers, rhythm guitar; Pepper Sheppard, bass and Mark Ritchie, drums.

Together they bring forth much of the music which put the Australian band on the map with frontman Bon Scott. The most impressive features are the vocals that Daniels gives up in his performance and the energy and playing capabilites of Young on guitar. Young’s authentic school boy outfit also helps make the grade. Teamed together, with a great backing effort, they make the show a must see, much like Bon Scott and Angus Young did with the upstart of AC/DC.

High Voltage came to fruition nearly a year ago when the two frontmen got together on Daniels’ idea. Before long, they found the rest of their formation and set to work at rehearsal. Four months ago, they broke out from the basement and brought it to the people of Raleigh. The response, thus far, has been grand. Last night they rocked the crowd and brought down the house with their combined energies and raw talents. Once they raised the sound level of Young’s guitar, after the first song, it was smooth sailing.

They opened the early evening outdoor gig with “Live Wire” and closed out the show with “Let There Be Rock.” The highlights which accompanied the setting sun and the rising moon were their explosive offering of “TNT,” the strip tease of Young which was done to the tune of “Bad Boy Boogie,” and the crowd’s response during “Dirty Deeds.”

When they are not working hard on their dynamic performance, they are working things out in the studio. A demo is forth coming as are many other great surprises. Looking ahead to the future, the band is working out some of the more modern riffs of AC/DC, the works that came with Brian Johnson’s fronting. Currently the only offering from that present formation is “Thunderstruck,” which truly pleased the crowd last night. As time evolves, High Voltage fans will also be able to enjoy other tunes from the Johnson era, including “Flick of the Switch,” “Stiff Upper Lip” and “Hell’s Bells,” to name a few.

If you are looking to be rocked, this band is a must see. With more than 30 songs added to their set list, they offer one hell of a show for all rock music fans to appreciate. To find out more you can check out their myspace page:

http://www.myspace.com /highvoltagenc

Written by: Tracey Stones

This band is really great and refreshing…they want to be entered next time..www.myspace.com/bingeban d

What a bunch of crybabies!

A contest to find the “BEST” has nothing to do with finding the most popular. Duh.

If they wanted to compile a popularity list, they could turn on MTV’s TRL, right? Oh, is that what most of you idiots do anyway?

Thought so.

This band is wicked, can’t believe their neglected:

myspace.com/gravit yco

You’d never guess where there from, but they keep picking up all the awards

Night Driving in Small Towns is awesome. I saw them Friday night and thay where great. I see a lot of live music and I was truly impressed, And that Main Guy that plays the guitar and mandolin is
amazing and HOT!!!

Here is an acoustic artist that is far different than your average rock/pop artist. David j.’s songwriting and lyrical stories are like non other. The question is that this kid has not been signed by a major label and everyone is still scratching thier heads to find out why.

I saw David j. on musicnation.com and he is currently in 1st place in the rock category. He seems to be a favorite amongst the artist and the fans.

I found his myspace page it is…

www.myspace.co m/davidjmusic

Here is an acoustic artist that is far different than your average rock/pop artist. David j.’s songwriting and lyrical stories are like non other. The question is that this kid has not been signed by a major label and everyone is still scratching thier heads to find out why.

I saw David j. on musicnation.com and he is currently in 1st place in the rock category. He seems to be a favorite amongst the artist and the fans.

I found his myspace page it is…

www.myspace.com/dav idjmusic

Here is an acoustic artist that is far different than your average rock/pop artist. David j.’s songwriting and lyrical stories are like non other. The question is that this kid has not been signed by a major label and everyone is still scratching thier heads to find out why.

I saw David j. on musicnation.com and he is currently in 1st place in the rock category. He seems to be a favorite amongst the artist and the fans.

I found his myspace page it is…

www.myspace.com/davidjmu sic

the best band on myspace is strawfoot…hands down…good music, cool page design, videos and pics galore…

www.myspace.com/thetrippsdk sorry

www.myspace.com/trippsdk

www.myspace.com/brownnoizeboyz

I just saw this contest and the winners …I think its Great!Even though its over…People should take a listen to a band called COPASETIC…..They are a great young and energetic rock band….With very catchy and memorable tunes!!check them out… MYSPACE.COM/COPASETIC

If anyone else noticed, Kevin Brock constantly poses as other people to try to get himself noticed. Your song didnt make it. So what!? All you need is one post, JUST ONE! And the rest will follow. Although I still agree that the contest was stupid, there are a few bands that have potential. Oh, and Kevin, your song isnt bad, but its nothing memorable.

that’s so dumb - i can’t believe www.myspace.com/communaldeathd uck weren’t considered?

I agree Danny Dean and the Homewreckers you all know more music exists that is not emo or rap, pop don’t you?

www.dannydean.com

Danny Dean by far!

this is such a rigged contest only because if you have money to pay to play.

Danny Dean by far go to www.myspace.com/dannydeanandth ehomewreckers

and rember to here him live with the Stand Up Bass player from Brian Setzers band!

Danny Dean you forgot the best of the best Rockabilly singers around!

I agree Danny Dean and the Homewreckers with out that stupid Jones guy!

Danny Dean in Easter with Mike Ness!

what no Danny Dean and the Homewreckers or Easter or some ANTI. geez these are mostly emo.

Cool, Refreshing and different!
Night Driving in Small Towns is amazing.
Lov um

You totally missed the VERY BEST BAND on My Space - Cinderblock Baby!!!!!!!! What a collossal oversite!

musical outfits…done…good stuff….now i’m done…buuuurt

check out KnubDust they are a pretty rockin band and know how to put on a very good live show

If you’re into old school punk, check out NELLO!. I’ve already started plagarizing his stuff!

Hooray for Band Marino, I’ve been pulling for them for forever (even though they can be total jerks when you meet them, their music is AMAZING). Good job, guys. Any band that has the leadsinger’s mom bake cookies for their CD release partay is okay by me.

And to everyone saying that the list sucks? Take your opinions elsewhere. You’re just sad that your sucky high school emo garage band wasn’t chosen. Get over it.

hey u forgot about “the sick puppies”!!!…All Just The Same

Joey Fiasco maybe the only real rock and roll band left.

Band Marino is amazing

Oh my God some of you kids have to be the most retarded Panic at the site of a band that isnt fall out boy morons ive ever seen.

Rolling Stone listed 25 bands youve never heard of before and you freak out. Maybe if you didnt accept every pop punk band that gets shoved up your ass everytime you turn on the radio or that your cool friends listen to after the trip to hot topic you would know how to find good music.

Refreshing and different sound. Nuff said.

JUST LISTEN TO THESE GUYS AND SEE WHAT YOU THINK FOR YOURSELF
href=”http ://ww w.mys pace. com/o ctoberfrequencyhttpforummyspac ecomindexcfm” target=_self>October Frequency

www.myspace.com/dharmajunkies

Maybe this really is the best band

myspace.com/thesw ayzef actory

what about incubus?

JUPITER BLUE is by far one of the best groups on myspace!!! not only do they have great music & lyrix, but the guys in the group are super-friendly as well!!! u can check them out at www.myspace,com/jupiter blue

currently they are competing in a video competition in which they are around #40 (out of 700+ entries!)…u can go view & vote for the video here:

rock.m usicn ation .com/ v91d

check them out & see what they`re about!!!

jonny15

www.myspace.com/jotaefe

So cool!

Take a look
www.myspace.com/jot aefe

This is Jota Project a new brazilian artist very good!

Van Stone

check this out:

www.myspace.com/desmondreed

check this out!

www.myspace.co m/des mondr eed

www.myspace.com/lucidbandrocks
Check these guys out, they kick alot of ass.

Where are KUFF AND THE BUTTHEADS???? What kinda cockamamie list is this????

www.myspace.com/jeradfinckmusi c

Next big songwriter…

Oh my god! band marino?! thats my best friends brother’s band.

wow rolling stone dubbs band marino one of the best bands on myspace. im pretty excited

Truly, this list comes off as pretentious garbage to me. Not only have I never heard of a single band on here, but I doubt that any one of them are destined for big things. They all sound the same and are lacking in anything, make that everything, that would make them worthwhile listening material. Next time you decide to post a list like this think for awhile about what makes these bands ‘the best’ as opposed to trying to be oh so original and snobbish.

www.myspace.com/whitetripod

WHITE TRIPOD! WHITE TRIPOD! WHITE TRIPOD! WHITE TRIPOD! WHITE TRIPOD

www.myspace.com/whit etripod

IS THE BEST BAND ON MYSPACE PERIOD
That muthafuka keeps it rea.

A few details to take note of

I just checked MySpaces for these bands. Of the list of 25 bands, only three had more than 10,000 “friends” on MySpace. Of these three, one had 10,000some, one had 11,000some, and only one had over 20,000. Of those under 10,000, most were also under 5,000 and probably half of the bands on the list had only a few hundred. Clearly popularity on the site in question has absolutely nothing to do with finding the best bands on the site. If these were truely the best bands, wouldn’t people actually be LISTENING to them?

There is nothing that really makes these bands stand out. Where are the catchy hooks? Oh, I’m sorry, I guess writing songs that get stuck in people’s minds is now uncool or something?

There are so many sub-genres of “rock” that are not represented in this list at all. Where is the hard rock, the alternative, the pop-punk, the dancey-pop-rock, the metal… with few exceptions, everything seems to be either “indie” or “easy listening” sounding.

The recording quality / production of most of these tracks is… uh… well, not great to say the least.

I’m pretty sure anyone who uses the site regularly to look for new music could give a better list (or at least 10-15 better bands) right now.

Sure, I found this site because I knew of a band that had been nominated and I was curious to see if they won. However, I really don’t care that they didn’t win. It would have been nice, but I would have been just as happy to find a list of 25 great new bands I had not heard of to check out. What I found was this disappointing list. Not that they are particularly bad… they are all fine. Not horrible to listen to… but not particularly attention grabbing either. The best on MySpace? Certainly not.

” The groups selected in the Top 25 are not as important as Rolling Stone making the effort. ”

Actually, I have to disagree. It does matter. People who are unfamilliar with MySpace as it relates to finding new music (yes, those sorts of people do still exist), may look at this list to see what sorts of music people offer. If the list is not particularly good, which in my opinion it is, overall, not, then these people may not realize the potential MySpace has for turning them on to music they may like better.

All of the bands on here seem to have a very similar sound… and all very “indie.” Nothing against indie - I like some indie music - but “rock” as a genre includes much more than just this really unusual stuff. And unusual does not necessarily mean better. I listened to the first 7 or 8 of these and couldn’t find one I could listen to more than 30 seconds of. There was just nothing really exciting about them - nothing that grabs you. These are certainly not the 25 best bands on MySpace by any stretch of the imagination. From all the options I’m sure you had to choose from, I am very disappointed in this list. I could name 25 unsigned MySpace bands that are more listenable, probably off the top of my head.

ok so i dont know anything about any of these bands, except that band marino. being a local to the towns they play, I have been very blessed to have gotten to see them. GREAT BAND! BAND MARINO, if you dont like them, yeh well…you pretty much suck.

You should add Pacha Massive to the list. They rock! www.myspace.com/pachamassive

JUST BECAUSE WE don’t always wear pants, doesn’t mean we want you to run away.

www.myspace.com/edisonc arter

www.reverbnation.com/ed isoncarter

As a long time friend of mine, Mikel has been writing and playing music since he was 18 years old. He stopped writing music reviews two years ago, and started this new band with a refreshed outlook on life after facing several battles in his own personal life. So to the haters, and disillusioned, just thought I would set the record straight so there was no more confusion on your end.

Just play music…that’s what this is all about anyway, right?

…the butt of a joke if your on this list. I think Rolling Stone made this list tongue and cheek. Just listen to any of the bands on here, it’s like making fun of the freaks that show up on American Idol.

What about “Born to Runner Up”?? We get no respect

Kolja’s song is really something!

Band Marino is 10x better than Dan Marino. Dan Marino is…hes a nobody.

the list contains several good groups. id say the best is Ultra Sonic Edukators.

www.soulmafia.net
www.myspace.com/soulmafiamusi c

one of the few innovative things in hip hop east of Gnarls Barkley.

Conggrat’s to White Shoes And The Couples Company !!!!

1. The 25 Most Crushworthy Bands of 2006 from allmusic.com
‘’The best indie pop band from Indonesia ever, their light and frothy sound will banish the dark clouds and leave you feeling quite warm inside. ” - Tim Sendra

and now 25 best band from rolling stone … go white shoes !!

night driving in small towns … luv it !

You haven’t heard ANYTHING till you’ve heard “ADISIS”!!!
Their from Arkansas, and they cover songs like Tool, forty six and 2, and the Deftones. BADASS!!!

Night Driving in Small Towns is awesome. I saw them Friday night and had a great time. I see a lot of live music and I was truly impressed.

The Airborne Toxic Event sounds like poseur rock from Los Angeles. Wait a minute, it is poseur rock from Los Angeles. I couldn’t even get through the rest of the bands on this list.

Http://www.myspace.com/thealar mists
http://www.thealarmistsb and.com

you are certified to hear about these minnesota boys soon, they were the “it” band in the twin cities in 2006… look out for their new album in 2007

Right On Band Marino…Right On.

The Airborne Toxic Event- dated

An Pierlé & White Velvet- worth a listen with their european chill out vibe

Astro Junkie- nothing new here

The Beauty- scrappy

Bill- a nice lil find there RS

BLACK AFFAIR- snooze

B.O.S.C.H.- 80s tv theme tune remixed

CosmoBrown- ‘illusion’ may be as good as they get unfortunately.

Couple - hmm promising

The Fancy Claps- fanciful…worth keeping an ear out for these guys

Kolja- get the man a record label quick

Locksley - vintage new york rockers are always pleasant on the ears

Miniature Tigers- unique in a spiralling into a stream of success kind of way

Night Driving in Small Towns- pleasant

Ryan Marks Productions- intriguing in the ‘wtf is this and why do i seem to like it’ kind of way

Shannon Hurley- and…

Ultra Sonic Edukators..a nice find RS well done.

White Shoes and the Couples Company- where is the line between vintage and just plain old…not that theres anything wrong with old i’d just rather hear the stories from grandpa than a young person telling his tales.

Y.O.U. - worth a listen.

so yes to conclude
if you havent got time to trawl through the list just check the Fat Amp Music filtered list. We double filtered the list…

*Bill- www.myspace.com/bill
*Kolja- www.myspace.com/koljamusic
*Locksley- www.myspace.com/locksley
*Mini ature Tigers- www.myspace.com/miniaturetiger s
*Ryan Marks Productions- www.myspace.com/elephantrockis thebest
*Ultra Sonic Edukators- www.myspace.com/ultrasoniceduk ators

To check out some other cool bands hit our site www.fatampmusic.com and our unsigned bands section.

Top Albums of 2006: 10-1
Published by vassego December 26th, 2006 in Lists.

Cover of Dosh’s The Lost Take

10. Dosh - The Lost Take

One of my favorite Minneapolis musicians showcases his strength’s on this, his third full-length. The laundry list of guests including Andrew Bird, Erik Appelwick, Jeremy Ylvisaker and others further increase the intricate textures of Dosh’s genre-blending style. I often find myself getting lost in the warm textures of his melodies and frequently forget that I’m not listening to a pop record.

Cover of Mogwai’s Mr. Beast

09. Mogwai - Mr. Beast

Mogwai’s 5th studio record brings a significant stylistic change to the band. Mogwai has built their career on being an intelligent metal band that doesn’t need to be obnoxious to prove they mean serious business. The band’s trademark has been songs that eb-and-flo for nearly 10 minutes or more. This record however shows a band with more focus, keeping their longest song, closer “We’re No Here” to a measly 5:39. Even though this record has removed a lot of the building crescendos of their previous efforts, the songs seem to maintain their power. When I first heard this record, I couldn’t believe it was the same old Mogwai that I’ve loved for the last five years; however, upon repeated listening, I find myself returning to Mr. Beast frequently. I hope that future Mogwai efforts will return some of their ostensibly less-structured songs, while maintaining the power showcased here.

Cover of Cat Power’s The Greatest

08. Cat Power - The Greatest

Cat Power’s haunting voice would probably make me love her, nearly regardless of the songs she writes. Fortunately, I don’t have to put my money where my mouth (fingers) is (are) yet as Chan’s created some lovely tales on this record. While the songs are less intimate, they still remain personal, and even more approachable. The arrangements with the Memphis Rhythm Band have been done incredibly well. Although the instrumentation on The Greatest occasionally borders on overshadowing Chan’s voice, it gets just close enough to the border to not cross that thin line. The smoke of the arrangements may glide over the line at times, but the winds from Chan’s soulful singing often guide them back to where they belong. Her songwriting is certainly changing, and while some claim it’s maturity, it’s difficult to say whether it’s because of the aim of creating an homage to her childhood music of Tennessee, or whether she really will be changing. I side more with the former than the latter. Nonetheless, the tales Chan weaves are gorgeous and intelligent. The few playful tunes are a welcome change, showing a healthier soul.

Cover of The Hold Steady’s Boys and Girls in America

07. The Hold Steady - Boys & Girls In America

There’s not much I can say about The Hold Steady. I like all of their records a lot, but the ballads on Boys & Girls make this my favorite bar-rock record of the year. With all the lyrical references to the Twin Cities, a place I still love, it would be hard for me to not like these guys. Sure, the music may not be mind-numbingly unique, it may not take the listener to another world, far away from that in which we live, but that’s what I love about it. It brings me back to a familiar place that I love.

Cover of Ellen Allien and Apparat’s Orchestra of Bubbles

06. Ellen Allien & Apparat - Orchestra of Bubbles

The mixing of the two diverse styles of Ellen Allien & Apparat here on Orchestra proves a benefit for the listeners and fans of either style of electronic music. I have to admit that I’m not wholly familiar with either musicians solo work. However, when I first heard this record, it’s easy to see that there are some very different backgrounds at work. Allien’s pounding, rough style truly benefits from Apparat’s attention to the minute beats. While Allien drives the beats home, Apparat comes from behind to fill the void with complex layers and still, somehow leaving space enough to not overflow the cup of collaborative genius. The champagne that produced these bubbles most certainly must have been a vintage Duval Leroy Cuvee Femme 1990 or another equally well-aged champagne.

Cover of My Morning Jacket’s Okonokos

05. Morning Jacket - Okonokos

I recognize I’m probably bending the rules a bit with including a live disc in my top records of 2006, but Okonokos is too accurate a depiction of My Morning Jacket to exclude from this list. As I mentioned in my earlier brief of MMJ live, with their organic sound, these guys really need the freedom of a live setting to showcase their talent, and this two-disc (or four LP) set does this incredibly well.

Cover of Wilderness’ Vessel States

05. Wilderness - Vessel States

Baltimore’s Wilderness have shown themselves to create records that are appropriate representations of their name. The expansiveness of Vessel States drifts in space pulling one away from their surroundings. Their sound is consistent, some would say boring, but I love the way they use sparse note placement to their advantage. The lyrics are as distant as the instrumentation is spacious, maintaining this well-balanced formula.

Cover of Jeff Tweedy’s DVD, Sunken Treasure04. Jeff Tweedy - Sunken Treasure

While I recognize including Sunken Treasure is another stretching the rules of “Top Album,” it’s inclusion was necessary given how often I listen to it. The songs featured on this recording showcase Jeff in his most intimate and innocent. Thankfully, he has included a incredible broad swipe of his previous songwriting experience, including music from Loose Fur, Uncle Tupelo and Wilco. Many of the older songs have been rearranged as well, bringing new life to them. I specifically enjoy the technical melodies of “Satan Your Kingdom Must Come Come Down,” which showcases Jeff’s talent on the guitar. It’s a pleasure to hear such stripped-down versions of many of my favorite songs.

Cover of the Appleseed Cast’s, Peregrine03. The Appleseed Cast - Peregrine

I was really anxious for this record. Two Conversations was an enormous disappointment for me, as it seemed to be showing a band in limbo. It seemed the band didn’t know if they should move back toward Mare Vitalis-style melodies and away from the abstract style of Low Level Owl towards a more accessible, poppier sound or maintain their more heavily electronic-influenced emo. Thankfully, Peregrine showed that prog rock was the avenue they should take, and I couldn’t agree more. It brought the heavy, dark & brooding sound to The Cast’s repertoire, and it arrived with honesty. It’s not forced as one might assume given their past discography. I look forward to The Appleseed Cast expanding their horizons with the broad base they’ve built.

Cover of M. Ward’s record, Post War02. M. Ward - Post-War

When I saw M. Ward live earlier this year at the Birchmere, I was quite sure that I had lost my eyeballs. When he emerged playing “Duet for Guitars #3″ from The Transfiguration of Vincent,” I was sure my eyes had popped so far from my head that I wouldn’t be able to retrieve them. His git-fiddle playing is masterful and his songwriting is terribly beautiful. It’s nice to hear someone of Matt’s eclectic talent, write such folk-inspired songs. His tales are smart, honest, and catchy; a perfect mix. M. Ward comes off nearly apathetic at times; however, it’s the laid-back style that draws you into his tales seeming to originate from a by-gone era.

Cover of Midlake’s record, The Trials of Van Occupanther01. Midlake - The Trials of Van Occupanther

This record’s velvety melodies struck with such a forceful impact the first time I heard it, I knew it was going to be near the top of my list this year. It’s stuck with me and catapulted to the top of my top albums at last.fm. The warm, soothing melodies on Van Occupanther combined with Tim Smith’s subtle vibrato make Van Occupanther’s troubles hardly seem problematic. With lyrics this warm and melodies this soft & lush, I find myself returning to this record, time and time again.

The Best Albums of 2006 That You May Have Overlooked
We here at Earvolution have decided that the Best Albums of 2006 idea has probably run its course. Let’s be honest, you don’t need us to tell you that Bob Dylan, The Raconteurs and Pearl Jam put out great albums; that The Hold Steady, Cold War Kids and Wolfmother had breakout years and Gnarls Barkley put out the Song of 2006.

What we can do for you is list, in no particular order, a handful of albums that though worthy, many not have received the attention they deserved.

U-Melt: The I’s Mind

U-Melt spent 2006 establishing themselves as one of the hardest-working bands on the jamband touring scene. Shortening the solos, U-Melt successfully brought the fun and intensity of their live shows into the studio. Zac Lasher talked to Earvolution about the new album and more here.

Tea Leaf Green: Rock ‘N’ Roll Band

A companion to the identically titled DVD, Tea Leaf Green’s live album gave long time fans a high-quality audio version of the San Francisco rockers’ best songs and offered new listeners a perfect introduction to their sound. More on the DVD/CD releases here and our exclusive “embedded” weekend interview with TLG from the Dave Matthews Randalls Island Getaway is here.

Block: The Last Single Guy

The star-crossed love child of Beck and Lou Reed, the New York singer-songwriter poetically captures the fading beauty of the Big Apple, ruing the day that Avenue A turned into a “punk theme park.” Read our full album review here.

Willy Porter: Available Light

Born of loss, Porter celebrates life on Available Light. Containing a nice dose of Porter’s inimitable guitar, it’s his songwriting, especially on the post September 11 elegy “One More September,” that stands out. Check out our full album review here.

Carolina Chocolate Drops: Dona Got A Ramblin’ Mind

The sounds of the Carolina foothills as channeled through a trio of twenty-somethings that know the era only through history books . . . and their mentor, legendary fiddler Joe Thompson.

More on the album here.

Grace Potter & The Nocturnals: Nothing But The Water

How can you not love a girl who demands her J.J. Cale records back from her ex? And, who looks better in an Earvolution t-shirt? Technically a 2005 release, this album got the remastering and rereleasing treatment for 2006. Anchored by a transcendent title track, Potter & The Nocturnals get bluesy, funky and little gospel on their debut disc. More on the band here.

Foundry Fields Recordings: prompts/miscues

Bleak musings on a post-apocalyptic future never sounded so enjoyable. Front man Billy Schuh’s airy voice gives even the direst of visions an optimistic slant.

More on the album here.

Radio Birdman: Zeno Beach

Australia’s version of The Ramones wakes from a lengthy slumber and comes up with one of the freshest albums of the year. The veteran rockers crisp, in-your-face songs prove that hard driving rock isn’t solely the province of the young.

More on the album here.

Vernon Reid & Masque: Other True Self

Exploring jazz, funk and avant-garde, Reid brings the rock instrumental album out of the doldrums. With Leon Gruenbaum alongside, Masque interprets Depeche Mode and Radiohead and give life to Reid’s excellent originals. Vernon Reid spoke to Earvolution about the album and much more here.

MORE LIKE IT:

ALBUMs OF THE YEAR

30

COLD WAR KIDS
Robbers & Cowards (Downtown)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Cold War Kids - “Hospital Beds” (Hype Machine)

29

FINAL FANTASY
He Poos Clouds (Tomlab)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Final Fantasy - “The Arctic Circle” (Hype Machine)

28

BOB DYLAN
Modern Times (Sony)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Bob Dylan - “Thunder On The Mountain” (Hype Machine)

27

CLIPSE
Hell Hath No Fury (Re-Up Gang / Star Trak)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Clipse - “Ride Around Shining” (Hype Machine)

26

THE KILLERS
Sam’s Town (Island)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: The Killers - “When You Were Young” (Hype Machine)

25

LIARS
Drum’s Not Dead (Mute)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Liars - “The Other Side Of Mt. Heart Attack” (Hype Machine)

24

THE THERMALS
The Body, The Blood, The Machine (Sub Pop)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Download: The Thermals - “A Pillar Of Salt” (MP3)

23

YEAH YEAH YEAHS
Show Your Bones (Interscope)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Yeah Yeah Yeahs - “Cheated Hearts” (Hype Machine)

22

TAPES ‘N TAPES
The Loon (XL)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Download: Tapes ‘N Tapes - “Insistor” (MP3)

21

GIRL TALK
Night Ripper (Illegal Art)
Buy It: Amazon

Download: Girl Talk - “Hold Up” (MP3)

20

REGINA SPEKTOR
Begin To Hope (Sire)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Regina Spektor - “Fidelity” (Hype Machine)

19

MIDLAKE
The Trials Of Van Occupanther (Bella Union)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Midlake - “Roscoe” (Hype Machine)

18

SUNSET RUBDOWN
Shut Up I Am Dreaming (Absolutely Kosher)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Download: Sunset Rubdown - “Stadiums And Shrines II” (MP3)

17

GNARLS BARKLEY
St. Elsewhere (Downtown)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Gnarls Barkley - “Crazy” (Hype Machine)

16

THOM YORKE
The Eraser (XL)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Thom Yorke - “Harrowdown Hill” (Hype Machine)

15

HOT CHIP
The Warning (Astralwerks)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Hot Chip - “Over And Over” (Hype Machine)

14

BELLE & SEBASTIAN
The Life Pursuit (Matador)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Download: Belle & Sebastian - “Another Sunny Day” (MP3

13

BEIRUT
Gulag Orkestar (Ba Da Bing)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Download: Beirut - “Postcards From Italy” (MP3)

12

CAT POWER
The Greatest (Matador)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes
Download: Cat Power - “The Greatest” (MP3)

11

JENNY LEWIS WITH THE WATSON TWINS
Rabbit Fur Coat (Team Love)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Download: Jenny Lewis - Rabbit Fur Coat LP (MP3s)

10

M. WARD
Post-War (Merge)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: M. Ward - “Magic Trick” (Hype Machine)

09

THE KNIFE
Silent Shout (Mute)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: The Knife - “We Share Our Mother’s Health” (Hype Machine)

08

BAND OF HORSES
Everything All The Time (Sub Pop)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Download: Band Of Horses - “The Funeral” (MP3)

07

DESTROYER
Destro yer’s Rubies (Merge)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Destroyer - “European Oils” (Hype Machine)

06

NEKO CASE
Fox Confessor Brings The Flood (Anti)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Download: Neko Case - “Star Witness” (MP3)

05

THE DECEMBERISTS
The Crane Wife (Capitol)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: The Decemberists - “The Crane Wife 1 And 2″ (Hype Machine)

04

JOANNA NEWSOM
Ys (Drag City)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: Joanna Newsom - “Emily” (Hype Machine)

03

GRIZZLY BEAR
Yellow House (Warp)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Download: Grizzly Bear - “On A Neck, On A Spit” (MP3)

02

TV ON THE RADIO
Return To Cookie Mountain (Interscope)
Buy It: Amazon | iTunes

Stream: TV On The Radio - “Wolf Like Me” (Hype Machine)

01

THE HOLD STEADY
Boys And Girls In America

This works much better:
http://www.upi.com/New sTrack/view.php?StoryID=200612 22-01465 6-2407r

Is there a vote breakdown? UPI relased this article: http://www.upi.com/NewsTrack/v iew.php?StoryID=20061222-01465 6-2407r
Seems that they didn’t realize that the bands were listed in alphabetical order and not by most votes. Does anyone have the vote breakdown? I need a top 10 list.

Fancy Clap is cool, even here is Ethopia.

Stay

Want to hear the worst band on myspace? Top of the list would be ADHD www.myspace.com/adhd

you should really check out these guys, they’re awesome live.

www.myspace.com/adria

just because the band you are in or like wasnt fortunate enough to make the list doesnt mean you all have to bitch about it. grow some balls.

i love love love bedtime for toys! so cool to follow them. super talented!

Is Mikel Jollet of the Airborne Toxic Event the same 34 yr old Mikel Jollet former editor of Filter Magazine? He gave my band a bad review once. That guy is bald and he sucks.

for what its worth rust never sleeps and true art please be heard Sean Jones Band tajones1975@aol.com for the real stuff.

yea congrats
after listening to your “top 25″
i have decided that 2 of these bands are listenable… on occasion.
c’mon guys i know you had a lot of bands to go through but i know of about 8 myspace bands (real ones that plays shows) that individually have more talent than this whole list combined.

yay for dissapointing everyone

Neverpuffins, Neverpuffins, Neverpuffins, Neverpuffins. You forget the Neverpuffins. How dare you.

What about The Midnight Renewal or Lannen Fall? Why aren’t they on the list?

Rolling Stones, your magazine is horrible and you know absolutely nothing about good music.

oh and you suck…a lot.

I’m sorry, but no.

You fail.

Make a better list and call us next year.

wtf is this

Ya know, everyone at this magazine really needs to just kill themselves. I have not read one good article from you in probably 5 years. You guys are on hour high horses and pull bands out of your ass that are garbage but you do it to feel like you’re an elitist in the music scene. Honestly, my 3 year old nephew has better taste in music then EVERYONE at rolling stone put together.

Haven’t heard of any of these!! what criteria did you use in choosing these bands?

This list definitely sux

Some of these Bands are really good, But I Love NIGHT DRIVING IN SMALL TOWNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

how the hell are some of these bands mentioned. there are far better ones that would blow these bands out of the water. check out
blue sky reality, or 100 Ft. Snowman, or the faceless.

Unfortunately, all of these bands suck.

I love Y.O.U.!!
Fabulous find!

No Bryan Scary on this list?? What you talkin ’bout Willis!??

Radiohead meets the Secret Machines and the Pixies with Last Tango: >
*Sorry, trying to put up a true hyperlink.

Radiohead meets the Secret Machines and the Pixies with Last Tango: http://www.myspace.com/lasttan goband

What a discovery: Ann Pierle!!

As one of the top 25 artists on your list, I am starting to discover the other artists here. One that really stands out is Miniature Tigers. The new kid on the indie rock block..fantastic.

Ryan Marks is just a big target because he was specifically mentioned, and everyone else seems pretty bitter about that. His song stands out from most of the other stuff on the list that is pretty bland and unremarkable. Listen to it, it’s catchy. Although it must be hard when your working your ass off without any real payoff and a kid in high school with slim reason to work at music beats you.

as usual the competion is open to bands and not solo artist,why is that?check me out on the solo,www.myspace.com/itsfirstc lassrecords
Barrington Anthony

ghhrr

For those who say these bands “play nowhere”:

An Pierlé & White Velvet are playing in the following months in
MÜNCHEN, NÜRNBERG,FRANKFURT, STUTTGART,KOLN,BERLIN,HAMBURG, BRUGES, PARIS… I wouldn’t exactly call this “nowhere” for a Belgian band.

Check out the Louisiana rapper GOLDEE at www.myspace.com/goldee2reppa

He should be on the list !!!!

I wonder why this guy didn’t show up?
www.myspace.com/alpern

Wonder why this guy didn’t show up?
href=”http://www.myspace.com/a lpern”>www.myspace.com/alpe rn

wow, flipper has shown us he can copy and paste

You completely missed Dennis Paul … # 1 on the Top 100 Bands on MySpace, as voted by the fans !!

http://myspace.com/denni spaulrocks

Congratulations to all the bands that made the list. Our favorite
was Night Driving in Small Towns.
We’ve downloaded all there songs,
thay are great. When will NIGHT
DRIVINGS Album come out!

these bands are over rated. i am sick of insider bands like the airborne toxic event getting play just because their lead singer is a music critic. god, can’t a real band get a chance nowadays?

Men Without Pants!!!

http://www.myspace.com/menwith outpants

If they were looking for talent and quality, they might have better heard Jeronimo Maya.

:o)

If you like the sound of trains fighting wind storms, go to http://www.myspace.com/greenpl asticwhistle

If you like the sound of banjos and beats colliding, check out http://www.myspace.com/greenpl asticwhistle

Congrats to fellow musicians who made the list. For next years list you should add a couple of talented Young Ladies in Justine Blazer and Jesse Palter(who is taking the Detroit Jazz world by storm)www.myspace.com/andyjohn

Vantucky Champs should’ve made the list. I don’t know if the entered but if you love great pop music these guys are awesome.
www.myspace.com /vant uckychamps

Geez, i forgot to mention ricky(bass) and friends at ruang rupa, you guys rule !!!!

nugroho
shine zine
Trax magazine
Indonesia

hell yeah, i get surprised when White shoes and the couples company is in the list. finally, Indonesian scene gets its place internationally, i am very lucky to be one of the media who had interviewed them, god luck sari, ryo,mela, john and ale, also two thumbs up to indra ameng..

nugroho
shine_zine
TR AX magazine
Jakarta
Indonesia

I’ve read a few comments about lack of shredding guitars. I don’t know if I would really consider this shredding, but “Born Again” by Hard Charger has an excellent guitar solo.
www.myspace.com/hardcha rger

bring the 90s back. please.

Im so happy that I didnt make the list , Lists are for people waiting for something to happen. To all the ones on the “list” your 15 minutes are almost up lol , and to the rest of ya … keep bitch’n !!!!

oh, and Los Super Elegantes are really good!

hey RS–

can you include the MySpace links please?

hard to find some of them..

E

Hey WTF? (down below)

Quit whining and use the big boy voice at the table. IF A BAND DID NOT ENTER, THEY CANNOT WIN.

Personally, I think you are an a$$hole, and anytime you would like me to “critique” a band of your choosing, please feel free to direct me to them. Or how ’bout I just come take a sh!t on your front lawn?

Now go back to your room in Tampa and play with your PS3 mommy and daddy got you for christmas, put on your KLIK CD, and shut the f@ck up.

I think more of these needs to be out… weed out the bad bands on myspace and help the good one’s out. Hopefully I see Court Jester on a “great band” list soon!

Rock On!
~Dan
myspace.com/courtjest er

What a Great Band!

yeah couple!!

www.myspace.com/mu ck

i love astro junkie for that post of theirs.
congrats to the 25 selected bands. i’m having a cool christmas listening to all of y’all.
hooray for music!

Congratulations to COUPLE!

Dotmig is generating a steady buzz. A diesel powered hit machine!

Reviewer: Tony - Missing Link Music

Dotmig is generating a steady buzz. Diesel powered machine thats rumbling through underground. They have more singles than my local Dive Bar! Listen!

great band! I saw them in LA on the westside…the show was off the hook.

an happy xmas gift in finding bedtime for toys… just like the stevie wonder tune! very cool of RS!

www.myspace.com/marionexxes

Hope next few years we could be listed too. Is it Mike?

www.myspace.com/mario nexxes

Yeah COUPLE huge now.

Just got back in town and was extremely disappointed to see the omission of bryan scary on your list. His new c.d. is a can’t miss and his live performance is incredible.

Better with You By FIVE TIMES AUGUST! Your missing them on the top 25!!!! BEst BanD EVER!

This list is horrible. This is from the same magazine that declared that the chick band “KLIK” from Tampa, FL was the best unsigned act of the year. Go over and listen to their shit and you’ll understand what I am talking about. This yuppie elitist (irony, since none of these musicians seem to know how to play anything exciting and new) magazine needs to be shut down for spreading this CRAP!! I’m so sick of this crappy music getting recognized…WHY???

Congratulations to all of the winners. I would also like to thank Rolling Stone Magazine for comprising this list. I will admit I may have been a little harsh on you guys in my previous comments and I want to apologize. I know your heart was in the right place when you made this list and i’m sure the people working for you have a credib;e music knowledge that far surpasses my own. However I still stand by my words that this is by no means the best list. Alot of great acts are featured and maybe a few of them belong to be up there I just felt it could of been much more solid.I also understand that you could only pick acts that entered. I am really looking forward to your reality show on MTV about the up and coming writers competing for a position on the magazine. A good friend of mine played a major role in creating that show and I think it’s going to be really good. So I know I was being an ass earlier but no hard feelings ok RS..lol

j

www.myspace. com/jacobthree7s

Lay off folks, of everybody. At risk of offending half of you, which I really don’t care anyway:

Play me your music, I’ll probably hate it, tell you how out of time and key it is, and that you need to go back and practice with a metronome.

Everyone has different tastes. Get over it.

I don’t like folk music, but I’m not gonna go on a RS page and comment that Bob Dylan sucks. Cause he doesn’t. Just not my bag.

Do I expect all of you to like our music???? NO. Do you expect me to like all of you? NO. Do I like all the bands here NO. Do I like some of them YES. Instead of pulling your C%cks out of your pants and having a pissing contest, why don’t you just shut the F#ck up, and quit arguing about who sucks and who “Rocks”. Say your peace and get on with your day people. I don’t care what you say about Astro Junkie. If I did, I wouldn’t post this. But leave Ryan Marks, couple, and everyone else ALONE. They worked hard, now let them have a moment.

BTW, RS could only picked bands that entered.

You can find us on myspace if you would like to converse. I’m done with this “meeting of the minds”

Yeah…Band Marino is defitnetly the best band on the list.

Congratulations to everybody who was picked. But um, this list is just for fun, isn’t it? Nobody’s career and/or life is riding on this, right? Happy Christmas.

www.myspace.com/modosolar

Modo Solar, check out this amazing guys from Brazil!

www.myspace.com/modos olar

The Airborne Toxic Event is an insiders industry type band. I used to work with the lead singer Mikel, he knows everyone in the music biz. He is one of those music critics turned songwriter dudes.

Oh, cool. The list got White Shoes & The Couples Company. They’re an indie band from Indonesia who carries out amazingly clean, attractive retro sound, which gives the listeners a good reminiscent of Indonesia’s music back in the 60’s, perhaps.

Here in Indo, indie bands only get wee supports from the industry and the majority of people. Therefore, having WS&TCC in the list means quite a lot for the indie scene here. Reading the comments, a lot of ppl think the list is crappy. But hell with it. Having WS&TCC in the list would at least make some ppl curious and therefore try to listen to them. So anyway, as a WS&TCC fan, thanks, RS for giving them a shot.

Congrats to Couple, how exciting!

Miniature Tigers rock my world! When you log onto myspace they leave you a reminder that their fans are the coolest! Charlie takes the time to comment back, send messages, and ask listeners and fans for their input. that’s the beauty of myspace!
Charlie with his viking heart is my hero!

holy dnjdlkenle COUPLE?
yeah

http://www.myspace.com/hysteri cs

That Ryan Marks stuff is awful!!! Apparently the judges have never heard World Leader Pretend OR Mutemath. Too bad. I wouldn’t expect RS to reward such mediocrity.

Had a great time listening to the final 25. Though not every single one became a fave, I do appreciate RS’ efforts.
Jerzy Jung and Couple are great!

what about, ORION Frequency???

ps
sensiguy, i need an update on the definition of emo, because im hearing a lot of emo on this list

without getting into who should and should not be on the list, i want to say that, i am not sure weather these bands were judged by just one song, or the overall (which would warrant the title best band as opposed to best song). with that said, i respect many of these choices in so far as the songs on display are catchy and well written overall, completely pop as to be expected, not straying from the formula that makes a trl hit….real musicians(at least this is how i feel) appreciate a bit more than the run of the mill same old sound. for my part if it sounds like the “hipsters” would embrace it with arms wide open and it would be played in an abercrombie store while im looking for a tshirt, then it is usually a boring piece of crap….at the same time, it does require a polished sound to meet that requirement which probably appeals to the RS writer who wants to feel safe in his/her shell. again i think a lot of these songs are actually better than a lot of crap i hear on myspace, BUT i dont know if these are the best 25 bands based on that

Yeah that contest sucks ballsack nuts f that armin van buuren is the best is the world end of story

A Myspace band contest and no emo bands? Wow. It’s like a band contest in Seattle in the early 90s with no grunge bands.

BTW, the Miniature Tigers song is pretty fun.

Yes, I love the Ryan Marks song. and if you look at the Round Three page you’ll see many others did as well. the negative comments you’re seeing here are simply embittered fans of loser bands that are taking it out on Marks because he’s a 16-year-old genius.

yayyayyyyyy band marino!

If this contest was relative at all they would have noticed that the most traffic this contest had was from Five Times August fans. FTA has been in the Top 20 Unsigned Artists on myspace for like a year and I can’t say that for any of the other bands. But then again, I guess having a fanbase, talent, and actual myspace success wouldn’t have much to do with a contest like this…. ??

one word for this list of 25, “HOLLYWOOD”. Check out www.myspace.com/vileconundrum

ya fuck all u guys that didnt win we new we would piss u guys off cause your all silly fuckhead dreamers.

Oops

www.myspace.com/bedtime fortoys

I feel kinda sorry for all the haters, typing furiously on their keyboards, feeling dissed cuz their bands didn’t win. Brush it off, guys.

Although I don’t always agree w/ Rolling Stone, I have much respect for the mag. Nice to see them checking out what’s happening on myspace.

Overall, I’m impressed by the list. Everyone’s got their own taste, but my favs are Los Super Elegantes and Bedtime for Toys.

Los Super Elegantes link above goes straight to their page. Check out additional tracks on Bedtime for Toys page. Turn speakers up.

http://myspace.com/bedtimefo rtoys

Whoa.

all i can say is that Ultra Sonic Edukators are seriously the best band on the list. and i agree that this list thing is kinda gay. Pitchfork would be a better list.

Band Marino Rules the world with an Iron Banjo. No but really. If you don’t dance, you will after going to a live show! Good choices. You guys are by far, the best to nominate a band that is well worth listening to. Keep up the good work.

you know Dotmig is much better than any of these bands. you need to take a look.
im not knockin the others, but Dot
is way hot with the music.
we love DOTMIG