OK‚ so this self-titled album may actually have been released in late 2010‚ but on account of them sweeping South by Southwest in 2011 and going nationwide in 2012 to finally support it‚ I can't resist including the Bright Light Social Hour on this list. Marrying a unique combination of gritty Southern blues rock infused with hints of Motown and propped up with gorgeous vocal harmonies‚ they've found a formula that is just plain fun. "Garden of the Gods" highlights the sensitive interplay between guitarist Curtis Roush and keyboardist A.J. Vincent‚ along with the steady pulse of bassist Jack O'Brien and drummer Joe Mirasole. It breathes before building to an absolutely devastating crescendo. Look for these guys to make a splash soon.

The Bright Light Social Hour