Artists to look out for in 2011 - Part 1

Pioneers are smug. Lets face that fact right now. At some point we've all been in that position where we find ourselves uttering the following phrases: 'I've been listening to *insert band name* for ages', 'have you only just started watching that series, I was watching it when season 1 was aired'. Smugly showing everyone around you that you were there first, and thus, you are a true fan. With this idea in mind I though i'd share with you some superb artists that I have discovered in the hope that they get famous and we can all enjoy a shared moment of abject smuggery with anyone who'll listen.

5 - Admiral Fallow

Image thanks to The Skinny

I discovered this Scottish six piece when I saw them supporting their fellow countrymen, Frightened Rabbit, at the Anson Rooms in Bristol. They were the first support band and played an intimate set in front to just one hundred or so spectators. However, the number of people at that moment was irrelevant, as the captivated crowd clung by every note. The band's debut album 'Boots Met My Face' was released in 2009 on Lo-Five records, and is due for re-release this month. BMMF is a fantastic record, with the songs; 'Squealing Pigs', 'Four Bulbs' and 'Subbuteo' particularly impressing - listen here. They seem to have the ability to write pop folk songs that you feel like you've know on your first listen.

For fans of - King Creseote, Frightened Rabbit and The Twilight Sad.

4 - Andrew Davie

Image thanks to Andrew Davie Myspace

Andrew Davie is a remarkably talented young man. At 22 years old he will have a long and illustrious career in front of him, that much I am sure of. He was the singer and guitarist of my favorite small band that never made it big - Cherbourg, (damn it, my signed 10" LP will never be worth what I envisaged). They were also heavily involved in the 'West London Folk Movement' and played extensively alongside bands such a Mumford and Sons. Although they never had an album, just a series of EP's, the songs they did release were excellent. A clear example of quality over quantity. I highly recommend you check them out. 

Since Cherbourg's split he has been writing solo songs, which are also very good. and can be found here. A mixture of a beautiful voice and intriguing lyrics, which are very dark at times, but always equally outstanding.

For fans of - King Charles, Jay Jay Pistolet, Snow Patrol and Mumford & Sons.

Part 2 to follow.