Breaking Artists

Introducing

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Introducing: The Virgins

August 21, 2007 12:39 PM

Welcome to Introducing, a new RollingStone.com feature where we'll be throwing a spotlight on recommended up-and-coming artists.

The Hook: New York-based quartet the Virgins play a brand of soul and R&B-tinged rock -- think a more jagged Maroon 5 had Adam Levine and Co. been bigger fans of Lou Reed and Gang of Four -- that's already gained the approval of punk icons and fashionistas (they opened for Patti Smith in front of 3,000 people during Paris Fashion Week -- it was their third-ever show).

Secret Weapon: They're slaves to pure songwriting and the gritty spirit of rock. "We are much more interested in writing songs as opposed to some sort of tone or crazy mood," explains bassist Nick Zarin-Ackerman. "There is a structure, there are rules to rock & roll and we respect them," adds singer Donald Cummings.

Must-Hear Track: In "Rich Girls," a fantastically funky bassline bobs and weaves while two angular guitars battle it out. Meanwhile Cummings' vocals (alternately drowsy, falsetto and energetic) explore his fascination with the inner psyche of a "Rich Girl" as he croons, "I'll tell you everything I know / Every little thing I know / You've got a lovely way with words / Is that the way you see the world?"

What's Next: Recently signed to Atlantic records, the Virgins got a song onto the HBO series Entourage earlier this month; they're set to record and release their full-length later this year.

Where To Find Them: Check out their MySpace or Web site.


Introducing

Introducing: Harlem Shakes

August 8, 2007 12:20 PM

Photo: Harlem Shakes

Welcome to Introducing, a new RollingStone.com feature where we'll be throwing a spotlight on recommended up-and-coming artists.

The Hook: New York-based five-piece Harlem Shakes sound like they were made for a groovy loft party: jagged riffs and '50s doo-wop-inspired backing vocals, all layered atop fast-paced tracks.

Secret Weapon: The Venn diagram approach. "All five of us have very different musical tastes and there is a very small area where all five circles in our Venn diagram intersect," explains drummer Brent Katz. "It often means it takes quite a bit of time to reach the finished product, but when we get there, that makes for something that we are all really proud of," bassist Jose Soegaard adds.

Must-Hear Track: "Sickos," a beautiful intersection of artful guitar downstrokes, '60s-inspired background melodies and spooky keyboards, while singer Lexy Benaim urgently recommends, "If there's a bomb in your hand, just throw it!"

What's Next: After self-releasing their EP Burning Birthdays in February, Harlem Shakes are currently flirting with a variety of labels from across the globe and plan to release an album in February '08. When they do hit the studio it will be with Les Savy Fav and Asobi Seksu producer Chris Zane. Until then, check out one of their awesome live shows where their Venn diagram approach leads to Radiohead-meets-Explosions in the Sky-esque mini jams.

Where to Find Them: Check out "Sickos" and more tracks on the band's MySpace, or visit their official Web site.


Introducing

Introducing Dan Sartain: Kick-Ass Rockabilly Dude, White Stripes Touring Mate

June 18, 2007 4:18 PM

Last week, the White Stripes announced that Alabama-bred singer-songwriter Dan Sartain would be opening for them on much of their summer tour, prompting rock fans everywhere to wonder, "Who the fuck is Dan Sartain?" Well, we're here to help. Check out the dope video for Dan's single "Replacement Man," as well as this Rolling Stone "Breaking" profile, then plan to show up early for whatever Stripes show you're seeing this summer.


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