The Absolute 100 (Aug. 2008)

[Julia Conny]

News posts and song streams. RSS feeds and webisodes. We swim in a digital ocean of recommendations - the music and us. Here at AbsolutePunk.net, we like to start the waves and then float in them. This is why we are back with our second installment of The Absolute 100, an annual collection of our favorite lesser known bands. Below you will find a centennial of really great acts. Some of them may be fresh to the ears, and some of them may be old news to your keen web browsing. Either way, we hope that from all the bands that clutter these interwebbed harbors, you'll find a precious handful from these Absolute 100.
-Julia Conny


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Part One: 1 - 25
* To stream songs from any bands of Part One of The Absolute 100, head to their AP.net Profile.



Alberta Cross - New York, NY / London, UK
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/albertacross) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/albertacross)
Why We Like: Soft, sometimes tender and slightly tragic blues rock is Alberta Cross' main street, but the raw and bending guitar parts don't just stick to one path. Mix that with vocalist Petter Ericson Stakee, a man with soul and a tortured rock resonance, and Alberta Cross is captivating.
RIYL: Sonic Youth, Neil Young, The Allman Brothers

Annabel - Kent, OH
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/annabel) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/annabelrock)
Why We Like: Infectious indie pop with sharp melodies that was released just in time to serve as the soundtrack for the spring and summer months. Now That We Are Alive recalls the 90’s indie scene quite often throughout its 23 minute length, which makes it a must listen for fans of that era. Now That We Are Alive is an extremely promising EP that will tide listeners over until the band releases the debut full-length effort they are currently working on.
RIYL: Superchunk, The Anniversary, The Get Up Kids

Bank - Boise, ID
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/banktheband) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/banktheband)
Why We Like: This band doesn't exactly live in a scene hotspot, but they've really strived to get out and put all they can forth in order to get people to hear their music. Their rural background has given them sort of a grassroot feel that you'll love.
RIYL: An Angle, Bright Eyes, Dear And The Headlights, The Early November

Beach House - Baltimore, MD
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/beachhouse) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/beachhousemusic)
Why We Like: As gorgeous dream-pop from Baltimore, two boy-girl duo of Alex Scally (guitar and keyboards) and Victoria Legrand (vocals) is light, intricate and visual. Loved by Pitchfork, but appreciated by more Beach House and 2008's Devotion are room-fillers.
RIYL: Mazzy Star, Sigur Ros, shoegazing

Bottle Of Justus - Bloomington, IL
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/bottleofjustus) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/bottleofjustus)
Why We Like: Not content to just write engaging slower songs like "Wave Goodbye," Bottle of Justus have a pretty good handle on the older Drive-Thru pop-punk sound as well. They combine those urgent riffs with soothing vocals that will entice you to open up an ice cold Bottle of Justus during all of those hot summer nights.
RIYL: Lucky Boys Confusion, Yellowcard, The Ataris

Cash Cash - Roseland, NJ
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/cashcash) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/cashcash)
Why We Like: We just can't curb these feelings inside. Our inkling for boy bands and sweet pop combined with the buzz of this new major label signee (formerly known as The Consequence) has got enough talk and fun hooks to bleep on our radar. Maybe, we figured, if we add them to this year's Absolute 100 list, they will create a synchronized dance number, just for us.
RIYL: The Higher, The Cab, boy bands, Metro Station

Closure In Moscow - Melbourne, AU
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/closureinmoscow) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/closureinmoscow)
Why We Like: Blazing post-hardcore from Australia. With vocals on the higher scale, listeners can reminisce to a Saosin-ed Anthony Green. Notes bend and the vocals soar in one. Every bit of Closure in Moscow courses with energy. Pay attention to the band's EP, The Penance & The Patience.
RIYL: Anthony Green, Saosin, Lady Radiator, The Mars Volta

Deas Vail - Russellville, AR
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/deasvail) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/deasvail)
Why We Like: With the piano-pop sensibilities of Jack’s Mannequin and a singer whose honeyed vocals rival the scene’s elite, Deas Vail make beautiful, beautiful music. After a universally lauded debut LP, Deas Vail are poised to breakout, gaining fans with each new day.
RIYL: Mae, Jack's Mannequin, The Fray

Driver F - Austin, TX
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/driverf) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/driverf) | Website (http://www.driverf.com/)
Why We Like: It's pop-punk with gorgeous hooks, and it's the summer ... the hand goes in the hand. And Driver F has a horn section - but not used to overwhelming altitudes - to beef up their already robust melodies.
RIYL: The Starting Line, New Found Glory, TV/TV, Jet Lag Gemini, Patent Pending, Sugarcult, Valencia

Foreign Born - Los Angeles, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/foreignborn) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/foreignborn) | Website (http://www.foreignbornmusic.blogspot.com/)
Why We Like: Earnest indie rock labeled by the LA Times as the "best to use sleigh bells." Originally signed to Dim Mak Records, the band recently signed to Secretly Canadian.
RIYL: The Deadly Syndrome, Cold War Kids

[B]Good Old War - Philadelphia, PA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/goodoldwar) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/goodoldwar)
Why We Like: Days Away’s split earlier this year was one of the most painful in recent memory, but thankfully, we will not be deprived of Keith Goodwin’s voice for long. Borrowing the fun-loving jam/folk combination of Guster and the vocal gifts of Simon and Garfunkel, Good Old War’s sound is at once timeless and fresh. We can only hope these guys are here to stay, as Only Way to Be Alone is an instant classic, indeed.
RIYL: Guster, Days Away, Simon & Garfunkel

Inept - Chicago, IL
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/inept) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/ineptband)
Why We Like: AP.net is a pop-punk site at heart and this band fits the bill, with the uncanny ability to craft a catchy chorus with unnatural simplicity. Luckily there is substance surrounding the chorus that makes each of their songs rock gems. How are they still unsigned?
RIYL: Autopilot Off, Story of the Year, Quietdrive

The Leap Year - Perth, Western Australia
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/theleapyear) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/theleapyearband) | Website (http://www.theleapyear.net/)
Why We Like: With A Little Push A Pattern Appears is seven tracks of impassioned, guitar-driven indie rock that immediately demands your attention. The album is breathtaking from start to finish and considering it is only a debut effort, makes one hell of a statement. You may not have heard of The Leap Year until now, but you will be hearing plenty about them in the future.
RIYL: Blueline Medic, Sunny Day Real Estate, The Life And Times

The Lives of Famous Men - Portland, OR
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thelivesoffamousmen) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thelivesoffamousmen)
Why We Like: Pop-rock out of Oregon that opts for jazzy dancing and fingersnaps over blaring, obvious hooks. No, The Lives of Famous Men are far more subtle then that. Singer Daniel Hall is breathy and doesn't use the melody as a crutch. It's feel good music that wins just as many points for musicianship.
RIYL: Panic at the Disco, Head Automatica, (kinda) Anberlin

Person L - Eastern, PA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/personl) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/personl)
Why We Like: Person L has an advantage. Singer Kenny Vasoli has some experience under his wing from the days of crooning around for The Starting Line, but his new project takes his chirpy, curious vocals and applies them to expansive, atmospheric indie pop. The combination is intriguing. Initial is out now.
RIYL: Weatherbox, Paper Rival, The Starting Line, Ra Ra Riot, The Shins

Pomegranates - Cincinnati, OH
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/pomegranates) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/pomegranatesart)
Why We Like: Pomegranates’ fuzzy indie pop is both energetic and captivating, and in a musical climate where most pop music is glossily produced and sterile, the raw and organic production on Everything Is Alive is like a breath of fresh air. Keep an eye on this band, it is only a matter of time before they capitalize on all the buzz they have been generating and take the indie pop world by storm.
RIYL: Wolf Parade, Superchunk, All The Day Holiday

The Promise Hero - Cleveland, OH
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thepromisehero) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thepromisehero)
Why We Like: They recorded their new demos with Chris Conley, and who better to do them for a band like this. Their new record should be released later this year.
RIYL: Saves The Day, Punchline

Robot Love Story - Chicago, IL
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/robotlovestory) | MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/robotlovestory)
Why We Like: They're one of Chicago's biggest gems yet to be discovered, but that is all soon to change. They're a synth pop band with silvery vocals that put their robot hearts into everything.
RIYL: Dashboard Confessional, The Color Fred

Sakes Alive!! - Rochester, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/sakesalive) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/sakesalive) | Website (http://www.sakesalive.org/)
Why We Like: Presents is three fast, raw, and in your face punk rock anthems written entirely by the bands vocalist and guitarist, Chris Vandeviver. Lyrically the band focuses on pressing modern day issues, but the songs do not come across as preachy, rather they just encourage listeners to be more politically and socially aware. Check out the song "I'm Religious" from their Act 1 7-inch on Barrett Records.
RIYL: Glass and Ashes, Challenger, Kid Dynamite

The Scenic - Philadelphia, PA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thescenic) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thescenic)
Why We Like: Former frontman of the band Rory, Jeremy Menard, joined a group of already established musicians from the Philly area in order to create a new version of The Scenic. They were a good pop rock band but now they possess one of the most intricate voices in the current scene, thus making them into a great band. Kids, gear up for this full length.
RIYL: Rory, The Early November, Houston Calls, Inkwell

Team Goldie - Landenberg, PA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/teamgoldie) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/teamgoldie)
Why We Like: Matt DiStefano is the fast-spitting MC behind Team Goldie. Pair that with his self-constructed electronically-aided dance parties and any basement church show will turn into a sweaty grindfest. For a good time, holler for Team Goldie.
RIYL: The Secret Handshake, Punk Goes Crunk, Girl Talk, Beastie Boys

Thecocknbullkid - London, UK
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thecocknbullkid) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thecocknbullkid)
Why We Like: 22-year old Anita Blay creates sugar-sweet pop music with an edge, described by NME as "the most interesting thing to have come out of London since Klaxons."
RIYL: Madonna, Santogold, M.I.A.

Two Shots of Rye - New York, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/twoshotsofrye) | Myspace (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewProfi le&friendID=8157702) | Free 3-Song Sampler (http://www.twoshotsofrye.com/freesampler.html)
Why We Like: Listening to this band is like listening to Brooklyn in the summer. The sound is scratched, stripped, and rough enough to sound like a DIY singer/songwriter, yet still fun and poppy enough to sing along to like the latest glossy pop-punk band. It's good music, and that's all that matters for this small band that seems primed to win over a huge audience.
RIYL: Elvis Costello, Third Eye Blind, Brand New

U.S. Royalty - Washington, DC
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/usroyalty) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/usroyalty)
Why We Like: All it takes is the neighborly charm of U.S. Royalty's guitar and piano rock to calculate a simple but collected indie pop. This newer D.C. act is far from pretentious, which makes their tunes both fitting for flashy dance clubs and dingy dive bars. Win win.
RIYL: What Made Milwaukee Famous, Keane, VHS or BETA, bar rock

Young Hearts - Brooklyn, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/younghearts) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/youngheartsattack)
Why We Like: Full-flavored DIY pop-punk, featuring former members of Dear Tonight and Saturday Supercade. Bringing us back the days, skipping school and without a care in the world.
RIYL: Lifetime, Taking Back Sunday, Kid Dynamite

[Julia Conny]

Part Two: 26 - 50

* To stream songs from any bands of Part One of The Absolute 100, head to their AP.net Profile.

A06 - Boston, MA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/a06) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/a06rock)
Why We Like: Those inside the AP world already know all there is to know about this awesome band, but the combination of epic songs, epic storytelling and vocals that sound like John Nolan (Straylight Run) and Casey Crescenzo (The Dear Hunter) had a baby named "buysoap" (a.k.a. Matt Meylikhov) and taught him how to play guitar like Claudio Sanchez (Coheed and Cambria). If you dig progressive, alternative, loud rock music ... go find this record that is sure to capture the AP community by storm.
RIYL: Coheed and Cambria, The Dear Hunter

Barely Blind - Groves, TX
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/barelyblind) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/barelyblind)
Why We Like: Don't mess with Texas, don't mess with these guys. They're four edgy pop punk kids from the Lone Star state with funny tunes and new jams with the same promise.
RIYL: Punchline, The Benjamins, old Fueled By Ramen bands

Bear Hands - Brooklyn, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/bearhands) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/bearhandsband)
Why We Like: It's not enough to cite Brookyln as a reason, although it's no secret the NYC burough is the hot-spot for up-and-coming indie bands. But Bear Hands would be great no matter where their apartment keys led them, which is why this snarky, clever and fun indie rock number made our list.
RIYL: Vampire Weekend, Tokyo Police Club, Modest Mouse

The Black Ghosts - London, UK
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/theblackghosts) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/blackghosts) | Website (http://www.theblackghosts.co.uk/)
Why We Like: A combination of dance, pop and soulful singing consisting by Simon Lord (formerly of Simian) and Theo Keating (formerly The Wiseguys), The Black Ghosts break the rules when it comes to your ordinary electro-pop band.
RIYL: The Whip, Simian Mobile Disco, Does It Offend You, Yeah?

Broadway Calls - Rainier, OR
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/broadwaycalls) | Myspace
(http://www.myspace.com/broadwaycalls)Why We Like: Recent old school punk Adeline signees Broadway Calls are a band we've learned to love more and more with each listen, thanks to vocalist Ty Vaughn's raspy voice.
RIYL: Smoke Or Fire, Jawbreaker, The Loved Ones, Green Day

The Cast Before The Break - Oneonta, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thecastbeforethebreak) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thecastbeforethebreak)
Why We Like: Why are concept albums about death always so life affirming? A question for another time, perhaps, but TCBTB is soo right now. Heaviness and catchy technicality meet in the middle for some wonderful clashes of sound. We’re never sure what the end result will be, but we always like it.
RIYL: Moving Mountains, The Appleseed Cast, What The Blood Revealed

Cinematic Sunrise - Detroit, MI
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/cinematicsunrise) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/cinematicsunrise)
Why We Like: You know the voice. Craig Owens has made his mark with Chiodos, his primary band, but he and a few of his friends venture over to the pop side on his side-project’s debut EP, A Coloring Storybook And Long Playing Record. It goes down fast, it goes down smooth, and it always leaves a good taste in your mouth.
RIYL: Good times, Chiodos minus screaming

Clouds - Boston, MA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/clouds) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/cloudsrock)
Why We Like: If you miss Cave In or just straight up ass kicking rock n’ roll, then look no further than We Are Above You. Clouds make balls out rock cool again.
RIYL: Cave In, Since By Man, Torche

The Crosstown Rivalry - Voorhees, NJ
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thecrosstownrivalry) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thecrosstownrivalry)
Why We Like: A young group of dudes out of Southern New Jersey who are putting out their second EP in two years. It's a brand of pop punk perhaps not known for its originality, but they're one of the best of their kind. They're also playing music for all the right reasons.
RIYL: New Found Glory, All Time Low, Hit The Lights, Four Year Strong

The Dodos - San Francisco, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thedodos) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thedodos)
Why We Like: Like an Animal Collective that grew up with love for folk, The Dodos uniquely tinge their music with intelligent lyrics and a penchant for a more melodically abstract way of doing things, whilst keeping the instrumentation comparatively bare bones. They're the kind of band that puts an effort into using all of their collective energy in to insuring each and every song is worth coming back to. You'll see what I mean.
RIYL: White Rabbits, Animal Collective, Blitzen Trapper

The Eclectic Collective - Boston, MA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/theeclecticcollective) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/theeclecticcollective)
Why We Like: Soulful dual vocals, grooves that flow like a fine wine and a multi-instrumental rhythm section make up this Boston group that live up to their name.
RIYL: Fishbone, Straylight Run, The Roots

Fireworks - Livonia, MI
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/fireworks) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/fireworksmi)
Why We Like: If you're late to the game on this band, it's okay. They're a quintet out of Detroit making honest pop punk. These are true DIY guys with a love for music most of you cant compete with. They'll be playing your back yard next week.
RIYL: Hit The Lights, New Found Glory, Set Your Goals

A Great Big Pile of Leaves - Brooklyn, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/agreatbigpileofleaves) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/agreatbigpileofleaves) | Website (http://www.agreatbigpileofleaves.com/)
Why We Like: They're giving away their music for free, so there's no reason not to check this duo out. If you're looking for music to wind down to after a long day, these guys deliver. Their indie pop/rock sound is also upbeat enough to help you start your day off with some positive energy, so these guys also receive points for versatility. Do yourself a favor and download A Great Big Pile of Leaves' music for the sweet price of zilch - it's well worth the price.
RIYL: Minus the Bear, The Appleseed Cast, As Tall as Lions, American Football, This Town Needs Guns

Holy Ghost! - Brooklyn, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/holyghost) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/holyghostnyc)
Why We Like: Holy Ghost! is a DJ duo from Brooklyn and let's just suffice it to say that "Hold On" is one of the catchiest dance songs this side of D.A.N.C.E.
RIYL: LCD Soundsystem, The Juan Maclean

Kickball - Olympia, WA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/kickball) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/kickballl)
Why We Like: With an already celebrated live show and a sound that you'll be wondering where it had been all your life, Kickball is a band you should absolutely be listening to for their youthful rhythm and angular bounce, if not for the fact that you probably haven't played kickball since junior high. Relive short gym shorts and unrequited crushes with a band that uses odd time signatures in a direction it should have been taken from the very beginning.
RIYL: Look Mexico, Know Think, Algernon Cadwallader, caP'n Jazz

Little Boots - London, UK
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/littleboots) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/littlebootsmusic) | Website (http://www.littlebootsmusic.co.uk/)
Why We Like: Formerly a member of buzz band Dead Disco, Victoria Hesketh a.k.a. Little Boots makes sweet pop music that will mesmerize you. "Stuck On Repeat" has been labeled by countless DJs and electro-blogs as the best dance song of 2008.
RIYL: Kylie Minogue, Ladytron, Dead Disco

Manna and Quail - Detroit, MI
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/mannaandquail) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/mannaandquail)
Why We Like: A moody piano based band from the confines of Southeastern Michigan, this quartet has yet to truly show the world much of their music albeit an EP from 2006. But in 2008, the world will quiver when they release their new material and chills shall be sent down their spines.
RIYL: Paper Rival, Phantom Planet, Coldplay

Moving Mountains - Westchester, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/movingmountains) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/movingmountainsmusic)
Why We Like: If this list were one band long, Moving Mountains would be that band. We’ve been chilling out to their hazy guitar tones and vivid imagery for what seems like the best years of our lives. A new summer EP might just turn them into everyone’s favorite band, which is kinda the point.
RIYL: The Appleseed Cast, This Will Destroy You, The Cast Before The Break

Picture Atlantic - Oakland, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/pictureatlantic) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/pictureatlantic)
Why We Like: They're a band that sounds like they've been playing music together for at least ten years, but they've only been together for a short time. They're a band with a huge sound that you will just send chills down your spine every time you listen.
RIYL: Coldplay, As Tall As Lions, Head voice

Seabear - Reykajvik, Iceland
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/seabear%5C) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/seabear)
Why We Like: Using a sturdy range of different instruments in a concoction so cute and powerful, Seabear proves the Scandinavians can always one-up us in pop. Having released their debut full-length, The Ghost That Carried Us Away, last year to great acclaim, there's no doubt this band has a bright future ahead of it.
RIYL: Oh No! Oh My!, The Boy Least Likely To, I'm From Barcelona, Bright Eyes

The Swellers - Flint, MI
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/theswellers) | MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/theswellers)
Why We Like: The kind of old-school, hard-working band you feel good supporting, The Swellers have been touring rigorously over the past few years, spreading their energetic, punk rock sound from ocean to ocean, standing tall alongside some of today's most respected bands.
RIYL: A Wilhelm Scream, Smoke Or Fire, Much The Same

Telepathe - Brooklyn, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/telepathe) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/telepathe)
Why We Like: Drone-y experimental pop that gets a bit dancier with every new song, and yet retains their renowned eerie textural music.
RIYL: Gang Gang Dance, Excepter, !!!, The Kills

Therefore I Am - Boston, MA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thereforeiam) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thereforeiam)
Why We Like: They are another great Mike Poorman-produced band that has somehow managed to stay unsigned so far, despite being hometown heroes in the Boston area. Their debut EP, Escape, switches between blistering, straight-rock ball busters and ambient, thoughtful gems, never once losing a beat. If you miss The Receiving End of Sirens and are looking for a replacement, here they are.
RIYL: Thrice, The Receiving End of Sirens, Autopilot Off, Saosin, Letter Kills

Wolftron - Kent, WA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/wolftron) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/wolftron)
Why We Like: While many think of Daphne Loves Derby as a band that switches between hot and cold, frontman Kenny Choi is irrefutably on point with his solo effort under the Wolftron moniker. As Choi’s breathy, fragile vocals lean against pretty and at times spacey instrumentation, it is easy to get swept away with the tunes on Flesh and Fears.
RIYL: Daphne Loves Derby, Lydia, Rookie of the Year

The Years Gone By - Freehold, NJ
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/theyearsgoneby) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/theyearsgonebynj)
Why We Like: To tour consistently as an unsigned band is a tough feat, but it's not impossible. For years, The Years Gone By successfully took to the road with fervor and passion without the aid of label funding until just recently. Rise Records, known for their heavier signees, are trying their hands at this smiling East Coast pop-punk.
RIYL: All Time Low, Hit The Lights, New Found Glory

[Julia Conny]

Part Three - 51 - 75

1969 - Los Angeles, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/1969) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/1969theband)
Why We Like: Big, hook-y guitars built around anthemic choruses that sound like they came straight from the classic rock era, drowning in melody courtesy of singer-songwriter/uber-producer Butch Walker. This is the kind of rock music stereos were created to play.
RIYL: Bruce Springsteen, U2, Marvelous 3

All Get Out - Charleston, SC
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/allgetout) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/loudasallgetout)
Why We Like: The sharp tone of Nathan Hussey's vocals hit strong against the bright, hopeful guitars, and between the two, All Get Out make their point known. But then, on songs like "Three More, I Guess", they turn into total piano softies. It's this variability that make this band a well-rounded quirky indie rock pick.
RIYL: Manchester Orchestra, The Format, Saves The Day, Weatherbox, Paper Rival

Baroness - Brooklyn, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/baroness) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/yourbaroness)
Why We Like: Baroness have created one of the most interesting heavy albums in a while that manages to be heavy without breakneck speeds and epic without sounding pretentious.
RIYL: Mastodon, Kylesa, Isis

Caillou - West Palm Beach, FL
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/caillou) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/cailloufl)
Why We Like: The musicianship on the band’s self-titled debut EP is vastly superior to other upstart bands and their brand of brooding indie rock will be sure to appeal to almost anyone. Caillou are currently unsigned, but do not expect them to stay free agents for long.
RIYL: Radiohead, Colour Revolt, Pedro The Lion

Culture Reject - Toronto, ON, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/culturereject) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/culturereject)
Why We Like: Michael O’Connell’s one man band weaves masterfully soothing indie-folk tunes with biting commentary, and the amazing part is he never sounds like a dick. We’ll take that over your favorite, pretentious bow-tied crooner any day, thank you very much.
RIYL: Bright Eyes, Octoberman, Micah P. Hinson

Empire! Empire! (I Was A Lonely Estate) - Farmington Hills, MI
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/empireempire) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/empireempireiwasalonelyestate)
Why We Like: Recalling the grace and melody of Midwest staples like American Football and Christie Front Drive, these Michigan darlings are garnering some attention for their sincere songwriting and revitalization of the mid-90s scene we all wished we were a part of.
RIYL: Mineral, Death Cab For Cutie, The Appleseed Cast, American Football

Florence and the Machine - London, UK
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/florenceandthemachine) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/florenceandthemachinemusic)
Why We Like: Incredibly catchy pop songs from a 21-year old South London girl discovered while singing into a toilet. One of the most mindblowing and talented voices out there, she has made waves already as NME's #1 Best Band To See This Summer (2008) and Best Band of SXSW 2008, as well as features in Nylon, Q, Dazed and Confused and other magazines; remember that all of this came before she even released her first single in America.
RIYL: Kate Nash, Lily Allen, SoKo, Lykke Li

Free Blood - Brooklyn, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/freeblood) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/freeblood)
Why We Like: Experimental pop with a dance edge, as one would expect from a band featuring an ex-member of dance kings !!!. Seeing them live is quite an event as well, and truly shows their experimental side.
RIYL: !!!, LCD Soundsystem

Fuck Buttons - Bristol, UK
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/fuckbuttons) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/fuckbuttons)
Why We Like: Discordant, noisy, and a strangely beautiful, Fuck Buttons challenges what we thought we liked with a mess of shimmers, sludge, and screams.
RIYL: Atlas Sound, HEALTH, White Rainbow

Genghis Tron - Philadelphia, PA
AP Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/genghistron) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/genghistron)
Why We Like: With the drought of innovation in heavy music, Genghis Tron has hired a machine to take on drum duty. Spastic, technical and amazing live, Genghis Tron brings one of the heaviest records of 2008.
RIYL: Converge, Dillinger Escape Plan, Kurt Ballou

InPASSING - Orlando, FL
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/inpassing) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/inpassingrock)
Why We Like: With the polish of a Tooth & Nail band (they worked with James Paul Wisner on their EP), InPASSING have a thick pop-rock sound that dances between sweetness and maturity atop swooping choruses. If you haven't yet heard of them, hop on the bandwagon before they become yet another Absolute 100 success story.
RIYL: Anberlin, National Product, Sugarcult

Lansdowne - Boston, MA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/lansdowne) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/lansdowne)
Why We Like: While their vocals contain less preteen yelping than you're used to from today's rock bands, Lansdowne fit into many genres but none simultaneously. Their music features vivid storytelling and a silky-smooth delivery that ranks them among some of the top unsigned bands out there today.
RIYL: Goo Goo Dolls, Novice, The Classic Crime

Jeremy Larson - Springfield, MO
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/jeremylarson) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/jeremylarson)
Why We Like: Jeremy Larson takes the mantra of DIY in a different sense entirely. Playing every single instrument on his lush, orchestral offerings (think strings, pianos, and such), Larson’s album is an exercise in scope, brilliance, and timelessness. He might be but one man, but he sounds like an army.
RIYL: Sleeping at Last, The Fray, Copeland, Anchor and Braille

Mercy Mercedes - Greensboro, NC
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/mercymercedes) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/mercymercedes)
Why We Like: Now that summer is in full swing, nothing hits the spot like sunny, sugary pop-punk. With a frontman that sounds like the second coming of Will Pugh and a band that constructs danceable, singalong backdrops, this is the soundtrack to warm weather’s best days.
RIYL: The Higher, Cartel, The Friday Night Boys, All Time Low, Jonezetta

Mury - Salt Lake City, UT
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/mury) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/murymusic)
Why We Like: They're A fun pop band out of Utah that prides itself in catchy hooks and soaring guitar licks. If you live out west, make sure you see this band next time they're in town. East coast, you might have to wait a little longer.
RIYL: Jimmy Eat World, Over It, Sherwood

People In Cars - Reston, VA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/peopleincars) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/peopleincars)
Why We Like: Aberdien always did a great job of melding together ingredients of both pop and progressive music. When they went on hold in 2006, it appeared all was lost, but Aberdien’s spirit now lives on in Etay Pisano’s new project, People in Cars. Playing all the instruments and carrying out all recoding duties, Pisano single-handedly brings us his continuation of smart prog-pop, sounding less like one man, and more like a veritable army.
RIYL: Aberdien, Anadivine, Circa Survive, You in Series

Raining & OK - Phoenix, AZ
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/rainingandok) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/rainingandok)
Why We Like: Raining & OK have an alternative rock sound that is entirely classic – no gimmicks necessary. Whether they are crafting touching acoustic numbers like “Send Your Angels Down” or more traditional rock numbers, Raining & OK do it with the skill and style of like-minded bands from best days of the last two decades.
RIYL: Alive in Wild Paint, Terminal, The Juliana Theory

The Summer Set - Scottsdale, AZ
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thesummerset) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thesummerset)
Why We Like: The Militia Group is really flexing their pop muscle this year, as the signing of The Summer Set illustrates. Staying true to their name, this Arizona four-piece might be new to some, but their mastery of cotton candy pop catchiness is at a level most bands won’t reach in a lifetime. Pick up their latest EP, In Color, roll your windows down, and sing along at the top of your lungs. Music is rarely this enjoyable.
RIYL: The Morning Of, Mercy Mercedes

This Time Next Year - Walnut Creek, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thistimenextyear) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thistimenextyearca)
Why We Like: They're quite possibly the best thing to come out of the Nor Cal scene since Set Your Goals peered their heads. They are the ultimate summer pop punk band of the late part of this decade. They're no Blink-182 or New Found Glory yet, but give them time and they will be.
RIYL: New Found Glory, The Movielife, Hit The Lights, Blink-182

Tiefighter - Los Angeles, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/tiefighter) | Myspace (http://www.absolutepunk.net/www.myspace.com/tiefighter)
Why We Like: Most bands in their supposed genre are pop punk with a hardcore influence, this band is the opposite, they're a hardcore band with a pop punk influence. Prepare to mosh.
RIYL: Comeback Kid, Blink-182, With Honor, Ambitions

TV/TV - New York, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/tvtv) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/tvkicksass)
Why We Like: Think neon, breakdancing and a polished dance pop sensibility that hits the bullseye with hooks and handclaps.
RIYL: Cobra Starship, Metro Station, The Cab

We Are The Union - Ann Arbor, MI
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/wearetheunion) | MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/wearetheunion)
Why We Like: Happy hardcore blended with ska-pop courtesy of average joes with a high-octane live show and positive attitude? The question is, why wouldn't you enjoy them?
RIYL: Big D and The Kids Table, Less Than Jake, Four Year Strong

Weaver At The Loom - St. Paul, MN
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/weaverattheloom) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/weaverattheloom)
Why We Like: With their debut EP, I Was Searching and I Found, Weaver at the Loom created a heartbreakingly elegant soundscape. At first sounding a bit like Copeland or This Day and Age, Weaver’s dedication to patience, attention to detail, and exploration of atmospherics truly set them apart. After five songs of aural bliss, we are now anxiously awaiting their follow-up LP, slated to be called The Giving Tree and the Death Machine.
RIYL: Copeland, This Day and Age, Sleeping at Last

The Wedding – Fayetteville, AR
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thewedding) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thewedding)
Why We Like: Matt Shelton has returned in triumphant fashion. His signature stutter-sing pushes The Wedding past every other semi-heavy alt-rock band out there. Their ballads smack as hard as their anthems and you’d be remiss to write a band off for having such an un-emo name.
RIYL: Letter Kills, Set Your Goals, Funeral For A Friend

[Julia Conny]

Astronautalis - Seattle, WA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/astronautalis) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/astronautalis)
Why We Like: We've been ranting about this one man band recently, but it might take a couple more times to stress the beauty and flow behind Andy Bothwell and his new full-length, Pomegranate. If Tom Waits could rap, he might sound like this. Keys pounding, lyricism spinning the truth - Astronautalis is a deep layered bluesy indie rock, and we absolutely love it.
RIYL: Tom Waits, Atmosphere, Beck
Two Years Before The Mast
The Bigger Lights - Virginia City, VA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thebiggerlights) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thebiggerlights)
Why We Like: A four-piece out of Northern Virginia that's starting a buzz with their clever pop-rock. Singer Topher Talley's vocals are brisk and youthful. A watchful eye and the song "Time Stops Breathing" is recommended. The band recently signed to Doghouse Records.
RIYL: Cartel, The Academy Is
The Chemicals of You
Drew Danburry - Provo, UT
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/drewdanburry) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/drewdanburry)
Why We Like: Kitschy and approachable folk pop from Drew Danburry make music that is really hard not to enjoy. And they're seemingly always on the road, distributing their upbeat indie charm with a dedicated DIY-spirit.
RIYL: Octoberman, Neil Young, City and Colour, Ben Kweller
Mother is a Song by Danzig Not by
E For Explosion - Guthrie, KY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/eforexplosion) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/eforexplosion)
Why We Like: E for Explosion is the side project of Jamison Covington, formerly of pop-rock wonder duo, JamisonParker. But these lush soundscapes aren't all about hooks. Reinventing the Heartbeat is an expansive exploration of atmospheres and shoegazing.
RIYL: Jamison Parker, Wolftron, My Bloody Valentine
Paper Flowers Never Die
Fleet Foxes - Seattle, WA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/fleetfoxes) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/fleetfoxes)
Why We Like: Because we’re bandwagon jumpers! Duh! But really, the vocal harmonies of this band have made every staff member on this site cry at least once, and some of us (like Steve Henderson and Drew Beringer) are still crying. While they dry their eyes, the rest of us will float off into the woods in a folky and ethereal bliss.
RIYL: The Beach Boys, Barbershop Quartets, The 60’s and/or 70’s
White Winter Hymnal
Foxy Shazam - Cincinnati, OH
AP Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/artists/showlink.php?l=4613) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/foxyshazam)
Why We Like: Aggressive piano rock that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but isn’t afraid to make you want to dance. Don’t miss the eccentric live show!
RIYL: The Blood Brothers, Fresh Prince Of Bel Air, Andrew W.K.
The Rocketeer
House Of Heroes - Columbus, OH
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/houseofheroes) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/houseofheroes)
Why We Like: After being forced to sorta toil away for the last few months, their brilliant LP The End Is Not The End is finally ready for release. Showcasing swift pop-rock numbers and meaningful ballads, the band's lyrics and musicality shine throughout. They have a 100% approval rating from anyone with a red name, and we all know how picky us staffers can be.
RIYL: Relient K, Midtown, Angela's Dish
Code Name: Raven
Innerpartysystem - Mohnton, PA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/innerpartysystem) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/innerpartysystem)
Why We Like: Plucking the best elements from electronic, alternative, and industrial genres, Innerpartysystem patches together a sound that is at once smooth and gritty. With a penchant for arena-sized hooks on top of concussive beats, IPS will make you want to dance, party, and raise all sorts of hell.
RIYL: Joy Division, New Order, The Killers, new AFI, Nine Inch Nails, The Faint, Shiny Toy Guns
Don't Stop
Lannen Fall - Boston, MA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/lannenfall) | Myspace (http://www.absolutepunk.net/lannenfall)
Why We Like: These Boston boys blaze through their hooks with ease. Vocalist Jay throws down choruses with umph and slight hit of grit, which makes this pop-rock more than just slip-n-slide. Give "Dead Air" a try.
RIYL: Mayday Parade, Sugarcult, Plain White T's
Dead Air
Liam and Me - Philadelphia, PA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/liamandme) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/liamandme)
Why We Like: Liam and Me touch post punk and pop rock with flair for the eighties. The slightly vintage electronica is danceable but often complex, and topped with a sweet and nasally vocal style.
RIYL: Action Action, Panic at the Disco
Say It Out Loud
Living With Lions - Vancouver, BC, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/livingwithlions) | MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/livingwithlions)
Why We Like: Following in the footsteps of other tour-'til-you-die Canadian bands inspired by hardcore and pop-punk, these Canucks bring the party wherever they go, in every way, shape and form.
RIYL: Daggermouth, The Wonder Years, Fireworks!
Cold Coffee
Looking Glass Wars - Westchester, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/lookingglasswars) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/lookingglasswars)
Why We Like: A band with deep, complex album concepts to complement their rumbling dark rock, Looking Glass Wars are mysterious. Their jazzy (but heavy) guitars and bull-headed basslines aren't here for small talk.
RIYL: Bayside, Deja Entendu Brand New
She's Mad, Madly In Love
Love&Reverie - Richmond, VA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/loveandreverie) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/loveandreverie)
Why We Like: With an outstanding attention to detail and enough tour endurance to last even the toughest roads, Love&Reverie impress us on and off the stage. But when they do pick up those instruments, the five-piece is careful to weave through atmospheric soundscapes that can be both progressive and catchy.
RIYL: Circa Survive, Deas Vail, Days Away, Park
Patience
Madelyn - Ft. Lauderdale, FL
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/madelyn) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/madelyn)
Why We Like: Madelyn's sound can best be described as powerpop with more than enough pieces of flair to get you hooked. Sing-along choruses and smooth songwriting keep their songs fresh and dancing around in your head for days like that the memories of that girl you met at the bar the other night.
RIYL: Brave Citizens, Drive By, Forever The Sickest Kids
Dreamers, Inc.
Maps & Atlases - Chicago, IL
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/mapsandatlases) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/mapsandatlases)
Why We Like: Enjoy the guitar acrobatics of Minus the Bear? Now imagine what they’d sound like with two lead guitarists and a love for Hella.
RIYL: Minus The Bear, Hella, Clean guitar tones
Every Place is a House
Me As Time - Manchester, NH
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/meastime) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/meastime)
Why We Like: This band is what would happen if the lead singer from Emery was surrounded by the music of Angels and Airwaves. Great rock music with delay pedal guitar solos reminiscent of The Graduate, it's clear to see why we picked this band with one listen. They craft one hell of a song, and their recent EP, Movement, is proof that it's not just a fluke. Definitely keep an eye out for this band
RIYL: Anberlin, Emery, The Graduate
Opaque
The Method To My Medium - Bloomington, IN
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/themethodtomymedium) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/themethodtomymedium)
Why We Like: This Bloomington, Indiana quintet knows how to make a catchy tune without bludgeoning you over the head with Autotune and overdubbed electronics. Their debut EP, The Sincerities EP features huge choruses backed by big, buzzing guitars, which will lead to TMTMM heating up your summer playlist.
RIYL: Motion City Soundtrack, The Years Gone By
The New Chapter
The Morning Of - Newburgh, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/themorningof) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/themorningofrock)
Why We Like: We are all suckers for boy/girl pop-rock on some level, and The Morning Of sure know it. Weaving together tunes rich in pop exuberance, TMO is a band that accomplishes what only the best pop acts can do – they make us feel young again with that big silly grin they plaster across our faces.
RIYL: The Summer Set, Mae, Kenotia
Reverie
The Ready Aim Fire! - Los Angeles, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thereadyaimfire) | MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/thereadyaimfire)
Why We Like: Slick, bouncy and poignant, this group of Californians bring a delectable slice of indie rock mixed with alt-rock flair for a debut that is sure to set the scene ablaze with adoring fans.
RIYL: Death Cab For Cutie, Weatherbox, The Honorary Title
Skip Town
Settings - Buffalo, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/settings) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/settingsband)
Why We Like: Without even listening to Settings' music, it's clear that this band is going places. With a hugely successful run on 2008's Warped Tour, a spot on MTV's TRL, and a new EP, this unsigned band is ready to storm the scene. Fortunately, they have the music to back up their hype, which is undeniably fun to rock to and a live show that is as spot-on as any currently in the scene.
RIYL: Ivoryline, Saosin, The Receiving End of Sirens
Creatures
Stop Motion Poetry - Modesto, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/stopmotionpoetry) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/stopmotionpoetry)
Why We Like: With only a few songs under their belt, it is astonishing how Stop Motion Poetry manages to create such honest, mature songs. Combining the best elements that serene piano pop has to offer, their music is just as at home underscoring a romantic date as it is a drive through a steady rain.
RIYL: Semisonic, The Fray, Waking Ashland, Jack’s Mannequin
A Walk Outside
The Coming Weak - Providence, RI
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thecomingweak) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thecomingweak)
Why We Like: With a set of crisp tunes produced by AP.net fave Mike Poorman, The Coming Weak combine the best of a number of genres. Pop-punk, straight up rock, whatever you want - it's all on the Consider This EP, whose standout vocals and instrumentation may just put Rhode Island on the musical map.
RIYL: Anberlin, Therefore I Am
Boats Against the Current
There For Tomorrow - Orlando, FL
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/therefortomorrow) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/therefortomorrow)
Why We Like: It's no secret we love a good dose of powerpop here at AP.net. TfT surprised a lot of people with their energy and talent at such young ages. Labels and plenty of enthusiastic fans have taken notice, making this band a quintessential one "to watch," hence them making this list. Duh.
RIYL: Cartel, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Hit The Lights
Pages
This Is Ivy League - New York, NY
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thisisivyleague) | Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/thisisivyleague)
Why We Like: It may offend your hipster sensibilities to know that This Is Ivy League, the former band/current side-project of Cobra Starship's guitarist and bassist, is actually one of the most engaging indie pop bands we've heard in quite some time. However, the duo provides a fresh take with their tightly woven tales and folksy-pop appeal, earning a spot on this year's list.
RIYL: Of Montreal with less quirk, Coldplay, The Essex Green
The Richest Kids
We Shot The Moon - San Diego, CA
AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/weshotthemoon) | MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/weshotthemoon)
Why We Like: Two of indie-pop's most melodic acts (Waking Ashland and Sherwood) are brought together, brewing up some of the most gracious piano-laden pop tracks you're sure to be humming well into 2009.
RIYL: Ben Folds, Jack's Mannequin, Waking Ashland
Water's Edge

[Julia Conny]

For anyone who's curious which bands were on last year's list: The Absolute 100 - 2007 (http://www.absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?t=258359)

[ZigZagYourTorso]

Please Consider I AM ABOMINATION

[Eadonj]

Thanks, dates remembered!

Closure In Moscow are brilliant.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Nothing for me here...hopefully something I recommended will be up on the other lists.

[carcrashofahart]

yay for two shots of rye! love them

[fadedmemories]

whoa.... a whole lot of bands to check out

[DI Pistola]

Deas Vail. Yessss.

[DI Pistola]

Driver F and Two Shots of Rye have already won me over.

[SanePsychotic]

:woot:

[Eurotrash Drock]

cool, good job julia! havent seen you in 3249 years. sakes alive!! shred, im tryin to set up a show here for them in nov. young hearts are good too. cant wait for the rest of the list.

[Fourchordwonder]

Good call on Deas Vail.

My old bass teacher was in Bottle of Justus.

[Snails]

Great stuff! I'm gonna check out a lot of these bands.

[newfoundmichael]

Check out Death To Anders and their song "Great Plains States" They are so talented and deserve a spot on this list.


www.myspace.com/deathtoanders (http://www.myspace.com/deathtoanders)

[tm decomposer]

whoever said pomegranates and the scenic.. and driver f. Good stuff

[snakeinmyboots]

I just fell in love with a Robot.

[tait]

nice, i will check out these bands

[_jonas]

have anyone heard of Brand New? They're really quite good.

[tait]

i'm really liking the lives of famous men, the promise hero and good old war.

[tait]

have anyone heard of Brand New? They're really quite good.
omgz no waiiiiii!!!111!!!!!1!!

[krishasaheadake]

sweet

[gasolinekisses]

Fantastic - definitely needed some new stuff...nice work on Closure in Moscow and Inept.

[Julia Conny]

whoa.... a whole lot of bands to check out

And there are 75 more on the way ....

have anyone heard of Brand New? They're really quite good.

Hmm, ill have to check them out.

[RockVocalPower]

Good idea to break them up. It's hard to digest 100 bands at once.

[hockeyguitar99]

Driver F are awesome.

[Poochemist]

"We swim in a digital ocean of recommendations"

lol, thanks Thrice.

[leftstranded]

woooo anabell. I got to play with them a few years back. These guys are amazing dudes and definetly worth checking out!

[get up kidd]

THE LOYAL
THE LOYAL
THE LOYAL (http://www.myspace.com/theloyalrock)

Just Listen ONCE, Unlike anything you have ever herd.

Thanks. And i LOVE LOVE Deas Vail!

[altemose09]

i want to see fallen from the sky and the wonder years on this list

[blimpcityhero11]

Sweet! Good local representation with Annabel and The Promise Hero!

[r_r_repeat]

You should check out a band called Abandon Kansas. Really amazing, and truly underrated. Their song "I Wonder If It's Me" definitely deserves a listen.

[madisonprep]

U.S. Royalty: i've been shouting them out all week, but i can't get enough of them.

but i think this absolute 100 is an awesome idea. it turned me on to Two Shots of Rye and Alberta Cross. gotta love waking up hung over and finding some blues to listen to.

[ClayBandit]

Everyone can stream the full Two Shots of Rye album here: http://hooksontape.muxtape.com

Also, please download our free sampler from our myspace page or a direct link right here: http://www.twoshotsofrye.com/freesampler.html

[mallyland]

I think most people know Person L....

[Nap]

What happened to bands that sounds like No Use for a Name or Lagwagon? Where are them?

[jtsnazzy]

Please Consider I AM ABOMINATION

Agreed.

[Andrew Love]

bank, bottle of justus, driver f, deas vail,the lives of famous men, two shots of rye

thanks for giving me a great new playlist!

[Blakebear]

I'm really glad that you guys compile this.

Its a great idea...

Thanks

[muddymire]

robot love story is so good.

[Battle Hymns]

Sweet feature, I love the RIYL sectoin and the sample song for each band. Makes the exploration a lot faster. Big mix of indie/pop mostly, but glad to see Driver F on there.

[soundofasmile]

stoked to see driver f and deas vail up there, i'm digging a lot of these bands.

may i suggest (if we're able to suggest): weaver at the loom, annuals, castledoor, and edison glass :D

[coastlinerock]

please consider A Coastline Ending

www.myspace.com/acoastlineending

[hailthewarrior]

Robot Love Story! I like those guys, I even wrote a review for the free EP on their myspace for here.

[alexweg182]

I think more people need to know about White Hot Skeleton they have the best stage show I've seen in awhile.

www.myspace.com/whitehotskeleton

[dancetony]

bank and robot love story....two great finds!

[lovekillsgirl]

good to see good old war and person l on there

[Wisher]

bank! yes!

i'm glad they made this list.

[The Personist]

I'm going to shamelessly plug October Nites (http://www.myspace.com/octobernites) here, because they're incredible and deserve to be plugged.

That said, Driver F and The Scenic are fantastic.

[saving jonathan]

I'm really digging Bottle Of Justus.
A lot.

[remoteCONTROL]

dude, the combination of Bank's songwriting with the production and mixing of Ed Rose has made one of my favorite albums of the year. Definitely worth seeing live if you're into good indie pop from some of the nicest people in the scene

[so typical]

not bad.

[bowl of oranges]

w00t for Good Old War being on there! I love them.
And someone finally fucking agrees with me that they're similar to Simon & Garfunkel. Thank you.

[Steve Henderson]

We have already finished choosing our 100 bands for this year, so there is no use plugging your/your friend's band.

[hellogorgeous]

U.S. Royalty: i've been shouting them out all week, but i can't get enough of them.

but i think this absolute 100 is an awesome idea. it turned me on to Two Shots of Rye and Alberta Cross. gotta love waking up hung over and finding some blues to listen to.



I love U.S Royalty so much

[topher465]

Closure In Moscow is solid

[gnp8472]

Beach House is pretty good... their album Devotion sounds like the album Scarlett Johannson should've made.

Person L is overrated to me, because of Kenny. It's ok, but nothing special.

[gonfreaks]

I love Two Shots of Rye and the Scenic, great to see them listed here.

[fran.182]

I'm really digging Bottle Of Justus.
A lot.

x2:-)

[fran.182]

like someone said where are the bands like lagwagon, pennywise....

i mean the skate punk/melodic hardcore of the 90's

[themadsilentist]

Foreign Born puts on a pretty good show, glad to see them up there.

[creppin802]

The Scenic! nice.

[HBdoubleJ]

Beach House's Devotion is one of my favorite records of the year. Glad to see it on this list and very interested to see the other 75.

[Shaneplaysdrums]

Thanks AP.NET!

<3 The Scenic

[saving jonathan]

like someone said where are the bands like lagwagon, pennywise....

i mean the skate punk/melodic hardcore of the 90's

These lists are for relatively-unknown and up-and-coming bands.
Kinda like "get into these bands now" stuff.

[patpratt]

thanks for doing this. i love this feature.

[MontanaFromNY]

Person L, and The Lives Of Famous Men are legit.

Bank is a carbon copy of Bright Eyes, so I will just continue to listen to the ladder. And the Promise Hero?What a dumb name. Deffenitly sounds like they were produced by Chris Conley, the vocals are just like the way Chris sings now.

[SaturnineMantra]

These lists are for relatively-unknown and up-and-coming bands.
Kinda like "get into these bands now" stuff.

I think he meant -- Why don't any new bands sound like that kind of skate-punk sound?

It's a real shame if that melodic punk sound is dying out/dead.

[GoWaitInTheCar]

Snakes Alive! had promise but I dunno about those vocals, seems like he's trying a bit hard. I like the music though.

[jtsol]

Standard of Living. www.myspace.com/standardofliving

[S9Dallasoz]

Thanks, dates remembered!

Closure In Moscow are brilliant.

Agreed.
Some other great band son this list too.

[fran.182]

I think he meant -- Why don't any new bands sound like that kind of skate-punk sound?

It's a real shame if that melodic punk sound is dying out/dead.

yeah i meant;-)

[MontanaFromNY]

I think most people know Person L....


yeah most people not living under a rock have heard of Person L by now.

[alltimecam]

could anyone else not get any of the music to play?

[GuitarR0cker1]

Yay for Bank!! They are my hometown heroes even though Boise is 400 miles away.

[murphy77]

looking glass wars
moving mountains

[HumtheTales]

Gives me something to read on this site on a Sunday.

[Roboman]

Good calls on Deas Vail and Closure In Moscow.

[mogwaifearsatan]

Fuck yes for Annabel! Amazing dudes, amazing songs.

[liar23]

pomegranates!!! finally somebody notices them

[BalancingacT]

Wow. Last year I didn't know any of the top 100. I'm so proud of me. Beach House, Deas Vail, Robot Love Story, and The Scenic rock my world.

[Tony Pascarella]

yeah most people not living under a rock have heard of Person L by now.Outside of this site, probably not. :shrug:

[cassie!]

Sweet more tunes to check out.

[xxtrappedsoul]

Yay Team Goldie :D

[Hey Krys]

it's so nice to see the promise hero on this list.

[luvizmuzic]

This list makes me happy and excited. Tons of new stuff to check out, plus bands I already love getting the attention they deserve.

[ReadyForAction]

I definitely didnt know that the singer for the scenic was in rory

[wesgemm08]

How is Closure in Moscow anything like The Mars Volta? Just sounds like a generic saosin rock band

[urface911]

The Scenic, The Lives of Famous Men, Person L, and Good Old War are great picks.

[Brandon Allin]

Good call on Driver F and Team Goldie.

[bruisexblackeye]

ever since i first saw Deas Vail 3-4 years ago i've been dumbfounded by the fact that they aren't more well known. GREAT band.

[Jess321]

Lives of Famous Men rock! I'm so glad they made the list :)

[The Marc]

Bottle of Justus = great band.

[jings]

Some very impressive bands there, this is a great idea! Can't wait for the next installment!

[shit stroll]

young livers should be on the list.

[PirateSkater182]

Barely Blind is gonna blow up this year.
Mark my words.

Driver F is already huge in my book.
They sell the fuck out of shows everywhere in Texas.
Amazing, amazing band.

[doyouhas?]

everyone should check out Beach House. their new cd is amazing, in my top 5 released this year. very chill but very awesome.

[rmenteer14]

holla for my boys in bank, those cats hold it down.

[UnicornLawyer]

Closure in Moscow are amazing!

[forget_december]

yesss, the scenic! their full-length is one of my favorite releases of the year so far.

[jenny_ell]

team goldie!!!! WOO

[S9Dallasoz]

How is Closure in Moscow anything like The Mars Volta? Just sounds like a generic saosin rock band

They remind more of the mars volta than saosin.
I'd say they're more complex than your average saosin type band...

[youareallfreaks]

Save the date! Nudes of the ap.net staff will be posted right here on September 6th.

[Steve Henderson]

How is Closure in Moscow anything like The Mars Volta? Just sounds like a generic saosin rock band
Vocals, diverse song structures, etc.

If you have heard the whole EP, they are just like a middle ground between the two bands.

[Alex DiVincenzo]

From what I've heard so far there's a lot of good choices. I hope there's some heavier bands in the other parts.

[uglystar03]

Person L, and The Lives Of Famous Men are legit.

Bank is a carbon copy of Bright Eyes, so I will just continue to listen to the ladder. And the Promise Hero?What a dumb name. Deffenitly sounds like they were produced by Chris Conley, the vocals are just like the way Chris sings now.


I'm guessing you're just judging bank off the song streaming here? I would not say they are a carbon copy of Bright Eyes. I haven't listened to them recently, but they have gone through so many transformations in the past. They started as a screamo band, which was horrible. They soon dropped the screaming and started moving towards a Get Up Kids rip off. lots of twinkling guitars. they even shacked up with Ed Rose. And now you say Bright Eyes? I'm sorry, but they are just nowhere near as talented as Bright Eyes.

Just an oral history of Mac Orange/Bank

[jings]

Giving a shout out to a little band called Grammatics. I think that if you like Lydia, you'll adore this group too:

http://www.myspace.com/grammatics

You can download their new song "New Franchise" for free at their website, too.

http://www.grammatics.co.uk/

[TheGoodnightMoon]

The Injured List
http://www.myspace.com/theinjuredlist

For fans of edgy, driving, piano pop music. It'd be nice to see an appearance later on in the list.

[TheMarcLife]

may i suggest a band? if so i definatly think people should take a look at the band Hey Hero.. they are just getting started and have posted some awesome demos and think they have a lot more coming in the near future.. the one demo called "the silver screen" blends wonderful sound of pop punk and rock.. and the fact that the lyrics are very clever and arent about girls breaking hearts make it ten times better, i definatly recommend checking out Hey Hero in the near future, espesially you AP.net (the greatest music site to ever exist!)

www.myspace.com/heyhero (http://www.myspace.com/heyhero)

[songydarko]

Good Old War, yessss.

[x0kristennn]

CASH CASH!
i loveeeee them :):)
i'm seeing them next week i can't wait!

[wesgemm08]

http://www.myspace.com/thisortheapocalypse

http://www.myspace.com/century

http://www.myspace.com/intronaut

...If any metal(core) bands are included, should be one of them

[GreenJellyBean]

aw the scenic. =]

[MontanaFromNY]

I'm guessing you're just judging bank off the song streaming here? I would not say they are a carbon copy of Bright Eyes. I haven't listened to them recently, but they have gone through so many transformations in the past. They started as a screamo band, which was horrible. They soon dropped the screaming and started moving towards a Get Up Kids rip off. lots of twinkling guitars. they even shacked up with Ed Rose. And now you say Bright Eyes? I'm sorry, but they are just nowhere near as talented as Bright Eyes.

Just an oral history of Mac Orange/Bank


I guess what i should have said was that one particualr song sounded like bright eyes, but thankyou for the history lesson anyway. and yes nobody could match bright eye's talent.

[astretch4glory]

Please Consider I AM ABOMINATIONso so so so talented and good

[get up kidd]

We have already finished choosing our 100 bands for this year, so there is no use plugging your/your friend's band.


Boo, =/


The Loyal (http://www.myspace.com/theloyalrock)

Can you just listen then?

[MCSmate]

Good Old War, Inept, Person L :D

Just saw Anthony Green, Person L, and Good Old War tonight and it was amazing.

[Steve Henderson]

Giving a shout out to a little band called Grammatics. I think that if you like Lydia, you'll adore this group too:

http://www.myspace.com/grammatics

You can download their new song "New Franchise" for free at their website, too.

http://www.grammatics.co.uk/
This might be one of the best recommendations I have ever seen on this site. Never listened to these guys before, and I am in love. Thanks for the suggestion.

[lilduff]

Please consider... KIRKLAND

www.myspace.com/kirkland

[macabre]

Congrats to Annabel, they're great guys and they put on a hell of a set.

www.myspace.com/lipona

[Sara729]

thumbs up for including The Scenic and Deas Vail <333

[wroteurname]

The Promise Hero isn't Saves The Day? I don't believe it.

[Everiggs]

THE LOYAL
THE LOYAL
THE LOYAL (http://www.myspace.com/theloyalrock)

Just Listen ONCE, Unlike anything you have ever herd.

Thanks. And i LOVE LOVE Deas Vail!

not shabby.

[singlexsorrow]

Deas Vail and The Lives Of Famous Men are the shizz!

[SurfinPunk]

Driver F is my summer (heterosexual)love. Great, thanks for posting songs too. Really lets people get a feel of what to expect instead of just saying what the "sound" like.

[gracky]

i loove the new format this year, the RIYL section and streaming songs makes it a ton easier to pick out stuff i like.

i'm liking good old war and pomegranates.

[Jumpoff]

I got a misprint of Young Hearts demo haha. Nice guys, they played with the menzingers and static radio once.

The Menzingers need to be on this final list if Young Hearts made it and.. Menzingers are more popular than the Young Hearts haha. Finally playing the Fest this year!

[punctum facio]

We have already finished choosing our 100 bands for this year, so there is no use plugging your/your friend's band.

www.myspace.com/yourbestfriend

[Jumpoff]

We have already finished choosing our 100 bands for this year, so there is no use plugging your/your friend's band.

Can you say if The Menzingers (myspace.com/themenzingers) made it? :shrug:

[irthesteve]

the songs by bank, deas vail, the promise hero, robot love story, two shots of rye, and young hearts have inspired me to dig deeper into them

[irthesteve]

This might be one of the best recommendations I have ever seen on this site. Never listened to these guys before, and I am in love. Thanks for the suggestion.
because of your response i checked them out. I am also very impressed

[kbgirlref]

Thanks for including two of my favorite Chicago bands - Bottle of Justus and Inept!

[Julia Conny]

"We swim in a digital ocean of recommendations"

lol, thanks Thrice.

Whoa, didn't even realize I did that, ha.

You should check out a band called Abandon Kansas. Really amazing, and truly underrated. Their song "I Wonder If It's Me" definitely deserves a listen.

They're not too bad. Not what I expected. *Bookmarked*

U.S. Royalty: i've been shouting them out all week, but i can't get enough of them.

but i think this absolute 100 is an awesome idea. it turned me on to Two Shots of Rye and Alberta Cross. gotta love waking up hung over and finding some blues to listen to.

I've been listening to Alberta Cross so much lately. Great band. Same with US Royalty.

stoked to see driver f and deas vail up there, i'm digging a lot of these bands.

may i suggest (if we're able to suggest): weaver at the loom, annuals, castledoor, and edison glass :D

Ah, I'm a huge Annuals fan.

[WFUJerseyJon]

Yes, I love the Absolute 100. Can't wait to read the rest.

[Julia Conny]

Beach House's Devotion is one of my favorite records of the year. Glad to see it on this list and very interested to see the other 75.

Same here. Even though they're from Baltimore, I saw them for the first time just recently and was floored.

I think he meant -- Why don't any new bands sound like that kind of skate-punk sound?

It's a real shame if that melodic punk sound is dying out/dead.

Because none of the new bands are doing it as good as the old ones. ;-)

yeah most people not living under a rock have heard of Person L by now.

People know about Person L as Kenny's side project, and this could direct them to actually give the music a good listen.

looking glass wars
moving mountains

LGW is great.

How is Closure in Moscow anything like The Mars Volta? Just sounds like a generic saosin rock band

Keyword is post-hardcore.

[ashley916]

the scenic!
i just started relistening to them about 2 weeks ago, and they already have about 140 plays in my itunes and have become one of my favorite bands. hopefully will be going to see them on the 24th in RI =)

[Julia Conny]

Good Old War, Inept, Person L :D

Just saw Anthony Green, Person L, and Good Old War tonight and it was amazing.

So pumped see that tour. More just Good Old War and Person L.

i loove the new format this year, the RIYL section and streaming songs makes it a ton easier to pick out stuff i like.

i'm liking good old war and pomegranates.

Thank you. Great, I'm really happy to hear that is working out. Glad you enjoy!

[evago]

Alberta Cross is awesome... so glad you posted them!

[JackSlapFear]

there are so many terrible bands on this list.


GOW, and keith, make up for most of them

[Rodeo]

Holy Hounds need to be on this list somewhere!!!

[Clambo]

I cant believe permanent holiday wasnt on last years list.

[MoChroi]

haha. inept...

[ciardiello31]

wake the f*cking fire!!!!!

www.myspace.com/wakethefire (http://www.myspace.com/wakethefire)

[get up kidd]

not shabby.

Thank you soo much for listening.

Tell all your friends!

[airik625]

I still need to listen to Deas Vail.

[Rich Duncan]

It makes me happy to see people loving Pomegranates.

[Naenia]

Bank!
=D Great band.

[Miss Heartcore]

Sweet shoutout for The Scenic and Cash Cash.

[delvec19]

Out of this list I like Deas Vail, Closure in Moscow, Driver F, Person L, and Scenic.

Bring on the rest!!

[alaskan]

the lives of famous men, from alaska for real, but its ok, they still rock and deserve this placement

[MJS87]

I had a class with the singer of Annabel. Incredibly cool guy.

[kbauer]

Bank is a really really fun band, I like them a lot.


Paper Rival needs to be on this list by the time its finished. Has to be.

[KevinSince85]

nice list.

[Hagysaurus Rex]

Great! More music to fit into my "list of bands to check out." However, it's AP.net approved so i'm sure it's all stellar.

[jings]

This might be one of the best recommendations I have ever seen on this site. Never listened to these guys before, and I am in love. Thanks for the suggestion.

Awesome, I'm so happy you like them! They are just incredible.

[kingd615]

Please consider Easton Legacy!
www.myspace.com/eastonlegacy

[pcyph]

I like Two Shots of Rye, that's about it though. Hopefully more to come =D

[emkvetwin]

good stuff! Driver F has been playing in my car for the last month; as a trumpet player, i can't resist!

[!T-DIFS!]

nice list!!! young hearts were my favorite.

[BalancingacT]

"RIYL: Sonic Youth, Neil Young, The Allman Brothers"

Could that be any less specific? hah

[bsquad08]

this is a great feature. good job absolute punk

[gibsonman246]

hey im not sure if its too late for this but i'd love it if you guys considered my band for the list =)

Waiting For Headlights
www.myspace.com/waitingforheadlights

RIYL: Four Year Strong, Paramore, New Found Glory

[Waitingtofall4]

yeah, team goldie!

[abeeb2]

Very good list so far...lot of diversity! Thanks for puttin' it together!

[Julia Conny]

i loove the new format this year, the RIYL section and streaming songs makes it a ton easier to pick out stuff i like.

i'm liking good old war and pomegranates.

Awesome, good to hear that the song streams were a good choice.

It makes me happy to see people loving Pomegranates.

Fuzzy indie rock is the best!

Bank is a really really fun band, I like them a lot.


Paper Rival needs to be on this list by the time its finished. Has to be.

Love Paper Rival.

"RIYL: Sonic Youth, Neil Young, The Allman Brothers"

Could that be any less specific? hah

Yes.

RIYL: music.

[Colin!]

DRIVER F!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

the music of the future.

[fivergirl]

Great bands. :) The only one I had heard of was Deas Vail. I'll definitely check out some of the others more.

[kbauer]

Love Paper Rival.




Make it happen!

[kbauer]

Before I forget and the recent news post reminded me, That Was Something needs some love too. I think these guys are really on the verge right now.

[joshy hizzle]

Two Shots Of Rye sound nothing like Costello or Brand New.

[Chris Fallon]

The list is already made, just split up into four parts so don't bother recommending your band for this years :-) But every Sunday we have recs, so have at it there!

[almmxo]

The Scenic! Wooooo!:freakout::celebrate::excite d::dance::clap::inlove: :music: :wave:

[rocktwin22]

Great bands! I can't wait to see the rest of them :-)

[Brandon Allin]

Good call on Fireworks, The Swellers, and The Years Gone By.

[areyoukiddingme]

I expected TYGB to be on this list eventually.

[xdylanx]

the 2nd 25 are much better

[jnnlopez]

Picture Atlantic! Yes!!

[cason eat world]

Moving Mountains is by far the best band on this list. A06, The Cast Before The Break, and Wolftron are all great too.

[tomgreen680]

Closure In Moscow are brilliant.

I agree. I've been listening to that cd all week since i first saw them on last weeks list. Really good.

[Praetor]

haha, an A06 shoutout. Awesome.

[tipoftheiceberg]

thank you for broadway calls, fireworks and the years gone by.
they deserved the recognition

[PassedOut]

Oh Julia, what would this site do without you? You are doing such a good job on this.

Gold star. = )

[AEast317]

good call on broadway calls, fireworks, and the dodos.

[MontanaFromNY]

On the second installment i like : Bear Hands, A Great Big Pile Of Leaves, and Fireworks. this list was better than th first and i hope the 3rd and 4th top this one

[taylerx0]

Out of this list, I only know Cinematic Sunrise (but have heard of a few of the others) but they're definitely worth checking out.

[juliaisnotcool]

Ahh this list makes me so proud to be from Michigan - Fireworks, The Swellers, and Manna & Quail are all so fantastic.

[adam anything]

im so happy barely blind made it, these guys are from my hometown and they really work hard, and love what they do. keep your eyes out for them!

[grimis16]

yey broadway calls

[PirateSkater182]

Barely Blind!!! I've loved those guys since I was 14. Best, and only band to make it out of my area. Amazing guys, amazing band. Please check it out, and catch a show if they come anywhere near you.

Sup Adam?! Wanna smoke a bowl later?

[Julia Conny]

Oh Julia, what would this site do without you? You are doing such a good job on this.

Gold star. = )

Thank you wonderful roommate. Wish I wasn't at work and we could watch Paranormal State in marathon style.

[underthetalking]

The Dodos are so fucking good. I've been pimping them for weeks.

[adam anything]

Barely Blind!!! I've loved those guys since I was 14. Best, and only band to make it out of my area. Amazing guys, amazing band. Please check it out, and catch a show if they come anywhere near you.

Sup Adam?! Wanna smoke a bowl later?

fuh sho man, i gota go to work at six for some bullshit "customer appreciation" sale till 9. After that though i'm free to make some smoke.

[Easton Legacy]

We'd greatly appreciate it if you considered Easton Legacy

http://www.myspace.com/eastonlegacy
http://purevolume.com/eastonlegacy

[gnp8472]

Dodos

[xxtrappedsoul]

Wolftron, yessssssssss<3

[punkguy031]

thats A LOT of bands i've never heard of.

[bailmeout13]

Manna and Quail, have a new fan.

[Steve Henderson]

We'd greatly appreciate it if you considered Easton Legacy

http://www.myspace.com/eastonlegacy
http://purevolume.com/eastonlegacy
Told you last week, we already have our selections for this year, so relax the spamming please.

[Shanooty]

lets try and NOT put 4 bands from the same city...

[at_theskylines]

Woah, I'm really digging Bear Hands.

[mht]

Clouds sound like Since By Man???... get the fuck outta here lol.

[oldschooljedi]

I definitely found some gems:

A06
Deas Vail
Cinematic Sunrise

And Wolftron is well awesome. Good to see them on here.

[Blake Solomon]

Clouds sound like Since By Man???... get the fuck outta here lol.


haha yeah totally wtf high five!

[mht]

fat

[alltimelove]

Awesome, I like that you guys mentioned Cinematic Sunrise & The Years Gone By.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

I'll be checking Moving Mountains out. If they're good, I'll check out the rest too.

[hydraulicheart]

Color me a fan of Seabear now. Thanks, AP.

[dontbescene]

Deas Vail is amazing!!!

[drtomoe123]

Yeah! Barely Blind! :D

[St0f]

The Swellers and Young Hearts are awesome!

[imtimwhoareyou]

Jason, or any other staff member:

Is someone going to post this as an article or something else on a more permanent place on the site? Just a suggestion for those looking for it who do not want to go searching through old news.

[Anthony Lutz]

It's good to see that Moving Mountains and Cinematic Sunrise on the list. I'll have to check out some bands on that list when I get home.

[Blake Solomon]

Jason, or any other staff member:

Is someone going to post this as an article or something else on a more permanent place on the site? Just a suggestion for those looking for it who do not want to go searching through old news.

it should be in the article section already? If not, it will be there soon no worries.

[Blake Solomon]

I'll be checking Moving Mountains out. If they're good, I'll check out the rest too.


They're good. I wouldn't steer you wrong.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

They're good. I wouldn't steer you wrong.

You better not, Blake...


Just kidding but hey, if I like this I'm finding you a couple of gems, given that you tell me what floats your boat. Alright?

[TheZeroKid]

Yay Matt from A06! Totally awesome shit!

[saving jonathan]

I'm really digging on Crosstown Rivalry and Two Shots Of Rye.
I've also been a fan of Fireworks, A Great Big Pile Of Leaves and TYGB for a bit.
Good stuff.

[jenny_ell]

give it up for the michigan scene. FOUR michigan bands on this part alone. and i love all of em

[PirateSkater182]

Yeah! Barely Blind! :D

That's whats up!

[Nathan Lint]

lets try and NOT put 4 bands from the same city...

Technically, the 4 bands aren't from the same city. 3 are from the suburbs, and one is in a completely different metropolitan area.

Besides, if all 4(3) of them are good, why does it matter?
(May it be noted that i only chose one of these bands)

[Blake Solomon]

You better not, Blake...


Just kidding but hey, if I like this I'm finding you a couple of gems, given that you tell me what floats your boat. Alright?

Sure thing. Hope you dig it. Well, I know you will. It's easy to know what I like, there's 200 some odd reviews floating around here that'll do that for ya.


I'm really digging on Crosstown Rivalry and Two Shots Of Rye.
I've also been a fan of Fireworks, A Great Big Pile Of Leaves and TYGB for a bit.
Good stuff.


Two Shots of Rye are some sweet dudes. I'm glad someone put them on this list. They make up for NY being so smelly and mean!

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Sure thing. Hope you dig it. Well, I know you will. It's easy to know what I like, there's 200 some odd reviews floating around here that'll do that for ya.

That wasn't easy at all, man. I went through around 30 pages of reviews and only found around 3-4 bands I could give recommendations from. So...

Eskju Divine - you might not like this as it might come off as a bit too sappy for you, but they're a decent band from a town not far from where I live.
- eskjudivine.com/ (http://www.eskjudivine.com/)
- myspace.com/eskjudivine (http://www.myspace.com/eskjudivine)

Prime Ape Got The Blues - the most promising hiphop act from Sweden right after Adam Tensta, even though they aren't really comparable. This you should really check out, I find something new every time I listen to their debut album-
- myspace.com/pagtb (http://www.myspace.com/pagtb)

Tell me if you find any of this remotely interesting. I'll keep you posted about Moving Mountains.

[manican sex]

kickball is great

[Jumpoff]

I honestly thought Cinematic Sunrise and Moving Mountains were well known.

I'm glad Broadway Calls made it. Still hoping for the Menzingers to make one of these. :sleep:

[errant_feces]

The Eclectic Collective (in group 26-60), got their asses kicked by BAD RABBITS. The Eclectic Collective is on hiatus. BAD RABBITS is the new project featuring everyone from the Eclectic Collective besides the female singer: www.myspace.com/badrabbitsband

[mdarket]

monument, monument (http://www.monumentmonument.com) must be on this list! check out their website and download "sleep well when you get there" ep for FREE

[singlexsorrow]

Great call on Picture Atlantic (http://www.myspace.com/pictureatlantic). They put on a great show and their full length is awesome.

[Romancebled]

I'm surprised to see Picture Atlantic (http://www.myspace.com/pictureatlantic) on this list. They're hands down the best unsigned local band in the bay area. They definitely have the potential to become huge.

They also just recently opened up for Coldplay in San Jose, CA, and it was an amazing performance.

[KEB182]

Ghost Of A Stranger!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvDEwpCfMRE

[colorlesscliche]

Disappointed man, where's the fuckin' hardcore man?

[S9Dallasoz]

I'm surprised to see Picture Atlantic (http://www.myspace.com/pictureatlantic) on this list. They're hands down the best unsigned local band in the bay area. They definitely have the potential to become huge.

They also just recently opened up for Coldplay in San Jose, CA, and it was an amazing performance.

Agreed.

[scmaley]

I really like Fireworks. Great to see them on the list!

[miketrondson]

Please Consider I AM ABOMINATION

Hahahahaha, hey Brandon, what's up?

[shtjames]

For anyone who's curious which bands were on last year's list: The Absolute 100 - 2007 (http://www.absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?t=258359)

will you pwease post my news julia we leave tomorra

[phoenixinflames]

Awesome shit on this list.

Clouds
Eclectic Collective
Therefore I Am
Fireworks

[ZigZagYourTorso]

Hahahahaha, hey Brandon, what's up?

Haha come on....what's wrong with some shameless self-promotion?!

[3eb23]

i'd like to add My Epic and Conditions to this list.
http://www.myspace.com/myepic
http://www.myspace.com/conditionsband

[redfalcon431]

BARELY BLIND is definitely whats up and they are really good live

[Hey Krys]

awesome to see barely blind on this list :)

[elude2oneself]

love that Person L is on here.. great stuff Kenny's doing and i'm very excited about his new found interest in diversity with the music.

Also, love The Cast Before the Break.. kind of a shocker to see them on here considering that there hasn't been much about them since they played Bamboozle this year.. but, they are awesome guys. You really couldn't find a better bunch of guys more deserving of the recognition.

[FayeQC]

the black ghosts, yes!

[emkvetwin]

Therefore I Am - Boston, MA
RIYL: Thrice, The Receiving End of Sirens, Autopilot Off

...i'm interested! and very high praise for Moving Mountains is good to see.

[Julia Conny]

i'd like to add My Epic and Conditions to this list.
http://www.myspace.com/myepic
http://www.myspace.com/conditionsband

Maybe next year? Or maybe in the next two weeks?! It's a secret.

[HBdoubleJ]

Another good call on The Dodos. I take something new away every time I've listened to Visiter. Winter just might be the best indie track written this year.

I'd love to see The Fashion, Walter Meego, Los Campesinos!, or Cut Copy make this list. Did Annuals make it last year?

Anyway, thanks for this feature.

[TooLateF0rRoses]

moving mountains is absolutely sick, as well as a great big pile of leaves.

[TooLateF0rRoses]

monument, monument (http://www.monumentmonument.com) must be on this list! check out their website and download "sleep well when you get there" ep for FREE

i have it and must agree, it is brilliant stuff. Fans of copeland check it out!

[bigrockusa]

Kickball? Wow, how did you come up with that one? did someone already pick Hopscotch? was 4 square taken? Probably a good band since they made this list, but seriously... so many awful band names these days!

[darkmartheight]

moving mountains and the swellers are both some good shit.