DIVE DIVE
If three quarters of this Oxford art rock outfit seem familiar, that's probably because you've seen them adding a touch of oomph to a Frank Turner live show near you. Yes, nowadays, bassist Tarrant, guitarist Ben and drummer Nigel make up the majority of the ex-Million Dead singer's backing band, but waaaay back in the halcyon days of 2001, they got together with vocalist Jamie Stuart to make music as Dive Dive. While their free time is currently very sparse thanks to Turner's relentless touring and recording schedule, they still found a few hours in 2010 to record brilliant third album 'Potential', which is available online now, with physical copies on sale in late January. Definitely ones to look out for.
MAX RAPTOR
There's something refreshingly visceral about Max Raptor's four-to-the-floor punk 'n' roll racket, characterised most potently by their riproaringly intense live shows. Thus far, they've managed to rack up support slots for Billy Talent, The Stranglers and, um, The Zutons, and if there's any justice, there'll be no end in sight during 2011. With a lead singer whose gravelly, gutteral voice is a match for Tom Gabel's and an uncanny knack for a catchy, yet aggressive, chorus - stand up and be counted 'Ghosts' and 'The Great and the Good' - these guys should most certainly go far. Public, make it happen.
RAMONA
Up-tempo, jangly guitars, lush, melodic choruses, sugar sweet female vocals... yes, ladies and gentlemen, Ramona are a Blondie for the twenty-teens (do you have a better name for the decade? Huh?) and they're not afraid to admit it. Well, if you could write delicious pop songs as effortlessly as these guys, you'd be happy to let the comparison stick too. Listen to 'How Long' now and irritate your co-workers with it for days.
THE WELLINGTONS
Criminally overlooked by the UK music scene for years, Melbourne-based power popsters The Wellingtons have an uncanny knack for putting a gigantic smile on your face with their shiny happy melodies and bright, sparkly choruses, sounding somewhat reminiscent of Motion City Soundtrack, Fountains of Wayne and post-'Green Album' Weezer. They're releasing their fourth - yes, fourth! - record this year and it's about time the good folk of these hallowed Isles cosied on up to their irresistible charms. Go on... you won't be able to resist, we promise.
SKETCHES
Leeds boys Sketches marry delicate, lilting vocals with the angular indie theatrics of Bloc Party and Editors, driving each sumptuous track with the kind of wiry, high-pitched riffs that Russell Lissack has wet dreams about. Having recently finished a mini-tour of the UK supporting US luminaries Minus the Bear, and also featured on the BBC Introducing stage at 2010's Reading and Leeds Festivals, these guys look set to be the new dah-lings on every industry jobber's lips in 2011. But don't let that put you off. They're ace. Believe.
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