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.